Joshua 2:11

KJV

And as soon as we had heard [these things], our hearts did melt, neither did there remain any more courage in any man, because of you: for the LORD your God, he [is] God in heaven above, and in earth beneath.

KJV (with Strong's)

And as soon as we had heard {H8085} these things, our hearts {H3824} did melt {H4549}, neither did there remain {H6965} any more courage {H7307} in any man {H376}, because {H6440} of you: for the LORD {H3068} your God {H430}, he is God {H430} in heaven {H8064} above {H4605}, and in earth {H776} beneath.

Complete Jewish Bible

As soon as we heard it, our hearts failed us. Because of you, everyone is in a state of depression. For ADONAI your God - he is God in heaven above and on the earth below.

Berean Standard Bible

When we heard this, our hearts melted and everyone’s courage failed because of you, for the LORD your God is God in the heavens above and on the earth below.

American Standard Version

And as soon as we had heard it, our hearts did melt, neither did there remain any more spirit in any man, because of you: for Jehovah your God, he is God in heaven above, and on earth beneath.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 2:11 records the profound confession of Rahab, a Canaanite woman in Jericho, to the Israelite spies. Having heard of Yahweh's mighty acts of deliverance, particularly the parting of the Red Sea and the defeat of the Amorite kings, Rahab reveals that the inhabitants of Jericho are utterly demoralized and without courage. Her declaration culminates in a remarkable theological statement, acknowledging "the LORD your God, he is God in heaven above, and in earth beneath," a testament to His universal and supreme sovereignty, which profoundly impacts the narrative's unfolding and Rahab's own destiny.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is central to the opening narrative of the book of Joshua, immediately following the Lord's commission to Joshua and the sending of two spies to reconnoiter Jericho. [Joshua 2:1-7](/joshua/2-1-7 "Joshua 2:1-7 - Spies in Jericho") details the spies' arrival in Jericho, their refuge in Rahab's house, and her deceptive actions to protect them from the king's men. Rahab's confession in [Joshua 2:9-11](/joshua/2-9-11 "Joshua 2:9-11 - Rahab's Confession") serves as the theological hinge, explaining her motivation for aiding the enemies of her people and setting the stage for the covenant she makes with the spies. Her words directly precede her request for salvation for her family ([Joshua 2:12-13](/joshua/2-12-13 "Joshua 2:12-13 - Rahab's Request")), which the spies grant, establishing a powerful narrative of faith and redemption amidst impending judgment. This confession also foreshadows the miraculous fall of Jericho in [Joshua 6](/joshua/6 "Joshua 6 - The Fall of Jericho"), revealing that the city's inhabitants were already spiritually defeated.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** At the time of this event, Israel was encamped on the plains of Moab, poised to cross the Jordan River and enter Canaan, the land promised to their ancestors. Jericho, an ancient and strategically important city, was the first major obstacle. The Canaanite peoples were polytheistic, worshipping a pantheon of gods, often associated with natural forces, and their religious practices frequently involved child sacrifice and ritual prostitution. The reputation of Yahweh, the God of Israel, had preceded them, not merely as a tribal deity but as a powerful, active force in history. Rahab's mention of the [parting of the Red Sea](/exodus/14 "Exodus 14 - The Parting of the Red Sea") (Exodus 14) and the recent victories over the Amorite kings Sihon and Og ([Numbers 21:21-35](/numbers/21-21-35 "Numbers 21:21-35 - Defeat of Sihon and Og")) highlights the widespread knowledge of God's miraculous intervention on behalf of Israel. The phrase "our hearts did melt" is a common ancient Near Eastern idiom expressing utter terror, demoralization, and loss of will to resist in the face of an overwhelming, often divinely-backed, adversary.
* **Key Themes:** Rahab's confession in this verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Joshua and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully underscores **God's Irresistible Sovereignty and Power** over all creation and human affairs. Even the enemies of Israel recognize Yahweh's ultimate dominion, demonstrating that no human resistance can thwart His divine plans. Secondly, the verse highlights the **Futility of Human Resistance Against God's Will**. The melting hearts and loss of courage among the Canaanites illustrate that their defeat was not merely a military outcome but a spiritual one, predetermined by God's judgment. Thirdly, and most remarkably, [Joshua 2:11](/joshua/2-11 "Joshua 2:11 - Rahab's Confession") introduces the theme of **Redemption and Inclusion through Faith**. Rahab, a Canaanite harlot, moves beyond mere fear to a profound theological confession of Yahweh's universal deity. This nascent faith, though imperfect, sets her apart and leads to her salvation and incorporation into the covenant community, foreshadowing the broader inclusion of Gentiles into God's people, as celebrated in [Hebrews 11:31](/hebrews/11-31 "Hebrews 11:31 - Rahab's Faith") and [James 2:25](/james/2-25 "James 2:25 - Rahab's Works of Faith").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **melt (Hebrew, _māsaṣ'_):** This verb literally means "to melt, dissolve, or flow away." When applied to the heart or courage, as here, it powerfully conveys a complete loss of spirit, will, and resolve, often due to overwhelming fear or dread. It describes a psychological and emotional collapse, rendering one incapable of resistance or action. This imagery emphasizes the utter demoralization of Jericho's inhabitants in the face of Yahweh's reputation.
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yahweh'_):** This is the sacred, covenantal name of God, revealed to Moses (Exodus 3:14-15). It signifies God's self-existence, eternal nature, and His active presence in history, particularly in His covenant relationship with Israel. Rahab's use of "the LORD your God" (יהוה אֱלֹהֵיכֶם, _Yahweh Eloheikem_) is highly significant, indicating her recognition of Israel's God by His unique, personal name, rather than merely a generic deity.
* **God (Hebrew, _ʾĕlōhîm'_):** This is a general term for deity, but when used in conjunction with Yahweh, as in "the LORD your God, he is God," it takes on a superlative meaning, emphasizing Yahweh's absolute supremacy and uniqueness among all so-called gods. Rahab's confession elevates Yahweh above all other deities, declaring Him the sole, true God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And as soon as we had heard [these things], our hearts did melt":** Rahab explains that the news of God's mighty acts on behalf of Israel—specifically the drying up of the Red Sea and the defeat of the Amorite kings Sihon and Og—had reached Jericho and caused widespread terror. The phrase "our hearts did melt" vividly describes the complete psychological and spiritual collapse of the people, signifying that their courage and will to fight had utterly dissolved. This was not merely fear, but a deep-seated dread that paralyzed them.
* **"neither did there remain any more courage in any man, because of you":** This clause reinforces the previous one, emphasizing the total and pervasive nature of the fear. No one, regardless of their position or strength, retained any courage or fighting spirit. The phrase "because of you" directly attributes this paralysis to the Israelites, but implicitly to the God who fights for them, whose reputation precedes them. It highlights the direct impact of God's renown on His adversaries.
* **"for the LORD your God, he [is] God in heaven above, and in earth beneath":** This is the theological climax of Rahab's confession and the verse. It provides the ultimate reason for the Canaanites' fear and Rahab's actions. She declares Yahweh, the God of Israel, to be the supreme and universal deity, sovereign over both the celestial realm ("heaven above") and the terrestrial realm ("earth beneath"). This is a profound monotheistic confession from a pagan woman, acknowledging Yahweh's absolute dominion over all creation and His unique status as the one true God, transcending all other deities.

#### Literary Devices
Joshua 2:11 employs several powerful literary devices. The phrase "our hearts did melt" is a vivid **Idiom** and **Metaphor**, conveying not just fear, but a complete and utter loss of resolve and spirit, as if their very essence had dissolved. This hyperbolic language emphasizes the overwhelming psychological impact of Yahweh's reputation. Rahab's confession itself functions as a pivotal **Theological Statement**, articulating a profound truth about God's universal sovereignty that transcends the immediate narrative. Her words also serve as **Foreshadowing**, indicating that the impending conquest of Jericho is not merely a military victory but a divinely ordained judgment, with the inhabitants already spiritually defeated before the battle even begins. Furthermore, Rahab's recognition of God's supremacy, coming from an unexpected source (a Canaanite harlot), utilizes **Irony**, highlighting God's ability to work through unlikely individuals and revealing truth even to those outside His covenant people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Rahab's confession in Joshua 2:11 stands as a powerful testament to the undeniable and universal sovereignty of God. It reveals that God's reputation, built upon His mighty acts of deliverance and judgment, precedes His people and instills fear in their adversaries. This fear is not merely a human emotion but a divinely orchestrated response, demonstrating that the Lord's power extends over the hearts and minds of all people, even those who oppose Him. Rahab's declaration that Yahweh is "God in heaven above, and in earth beneath" is a profound theological statement, echoing the monotheistic claims found throughout the Old Testament and affirming His absolute dominion over all creation. Her confession, born of fear yet blossoming into faith, illustrates God's capacity to draw individuals from any background into His redemptive plan, recognizing His unique and supreme authority.

* [Deuteronomy 4:39](/deuteronomy/4-39 "Deuteronomy 4:39 - God's Supremacy")
* [Hebrews 11:31](/hebrews/11-31 "Hebrews 11:31 - Rahab's Faith")
* [James 2:25](/james/2-25 "James 2:25 - Rahab's Justifying Works")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Rahab's confession in Joshua 2:11 offers profound lessons for believers today. Her words remind us that the God we serve is not a regional deity or a limited power, but the supreme sovereign over all creation, "in heaven above, and in earth beneath." This truth should instill in us a deep confidence, knowing that the God who controls all things is on our side. It also challenges us to consider the impact of our lives and witness: just as the reputation of God's acts through Israel caused the hearts of Jericho to melt, our lives, lived in obedience and faith, should bear witness to God's power and character, potentially leading others to acknowledge His supremacy. Furthermore, Rahab's story reminds us that true faith can emerge from unexpected places and circumstances, and that God is always at work, drawing people to Himself, even those who seem furthest from Him. Her fear, transformed into a saving faith, encourages us to trust that God can use any situation to reveal Himself and bring about repentance and salvation.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Rahab's confession of God's universal sovereignty ("in heaven above, and in earth beneath") deepen your understanding of God's character and power?**
* **In what ways might the "reputation" of God, as demonstrated through His people, impact those who do not yet know Him today?**
* **What does Rahab's journey from fear to faith teach us about God's grace and His willingness to save those who turn to Him, regardless of their past?**
* **How can acknowledging God's absolute control over all things strengthen your courage and resolve in the face of personal or societal challenges?**

### FAQ
**Why is Rahab's confession, "the LORD your God, he is God in heaven above, and in earth beneath," so significant?**

Answer: Rahab's confession is profoundly significant for several reasons. Firstly, it is a remarkable theological statement coming from a Canaanite harlot, a pagan woman outside the covenant people of Israel. It demonstrates that the truth of Yahweh's supreme deity was so powerful that it permeated even the hearts of His enemies. Secondly, it is a clear declaration of monotheism in a polytheistic world, acknowledging Yahweh not just as a powerful tribal god, but as the one true God who governs all realms—celestial and terrestrial. This universal dominion is a core tenet of biblical theology, echoed throughout Scripture (e.g., [Deuteronomy 4:39](/deuteronomy/4-39 "Deuteronomy 4:39 - God's Supremacy"), [1 Kings 8:23](/1_kings/8-23 "1 Kings 8:23 - God of Israel")). Thirdly, it provides the theological basis for Rahab's subsequent actions: her protection of the spies and her request for salvation. Her recognition of God's absolute power and authority compelled her to align herself with Him, leading to her redemption and inclusion in the lineage of Christ ([Matthew 1:5](/matthew/1-5 "Matthew 1:5 - Rahab in Christ's Genealogy")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Rahab's confession in [Joshua 2:11](/joshua/2-11 "Joshua 2:11 - Rahab's Confession") finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Rahab's declaration that "the LORD your God, he is God in heaven above, and in earth beneath" points to the universal sovereignty of Yahweh, a sovereignty fully embodied and exercised by Jesus. As the incarnate Son of God, Jesus possesses all authority "in heaven and on earth" ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")), demonstrating His power over creation, sickness, demons, and even death. The "melting hearts" of Jericho's inhabitants, struck with terror at the reputation of Yahweh, foreshadow the ultimate fear and submission that every knee will one day offer to Christ, whether in worship or in judgment ([Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10-11 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow")). Furthermore, Rahab herself, a Gentile harlot, is a remarkable type of the Church, demonstrating that salvation through faith is extended to all, regardless of their past or ethnic origin. Her inclusion in the lineage of Christ ([Matthew 1:5](/matthew/1-5 "Matthew 1:5 - Rahab in Christ's Genealogy")) powerfully illustrates that Jesus came to save not just Israel, but "the lost" from every nation, bringing them into His eternal kingdom through His atoning sacrifice and resurrection, establishing His reign as the true God over heaven and earth.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Deuteronomy 4:39

Know therefore this day, and consider [it] in thine heart, that the LORD he [is] God in heaven above, and upon the earth beneath: [there is] none else.

Joshua 5:1

¶ And it came to pass, when all the kings of the Amorites, which [were] on the side of Jordan westward, and all the kings of the Canaanites, which [were] by the sea, heard that the LORD had dried up the waters of Jordan from before the children of Israel, until we were passed over, that their heart melted, neither was there spirit in them any more, because of the children of Israel.

Isaiah 13:7

Therefore shall all hands be faint, and every man's heart shall melt:

Joshua 7:5

And the men of Ai smote of them about thirty and six men: for they chased them [from] before the gate [even] unto Shebarim, and smote them in the going down: wherefore the hearts of the people melted, and became as water.

Jeremiah 16:19

O LORD, my strength, and my fortress, and my refuge in the day of affliction, the Gentiles shall come unto thee from the ends of the earth, and shall say, Surely our fathers have inherited lies, vanity, and [things] wherein [there is] no profit.

Jeremiah 16:21

Therefore, behold, I will this once cause them to know, I will cause them to know mine hand and my might; and they shall know that my name [is] The LORD.

Daniel 6:25

¶ Then king Darius wrote unto all people, nations, and languages, that dwell in all the earth; Peace be multiplied unto you.