the same as רָחָב; proud; Rachab, a Canaanitess; Rahab.
Transliteration:Râchâb
Pronunciation:raw-khawb'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H7343 (רָחָב, Râchâb) functions predominantly as a proper noun, designating the Canaanite woman of Jericho. Its etymological foundation stems from the root H7337 (רָחָב, râchâv), meaning "broad," "wide," or "spacious." This root can denote physical expanse or, metaphorically, a sense of openness or capacity. The Strong's definition also includes "proud," a semantic nuance likely derived from the related H7342 (רָהַב, râhab), which refers to a mythical sea monster or a symbolic representation of Egypt, often associated with arrogance and insolence. While the person Rahab (H7343) is not characterized by pride in the biblical narrative, her name's linguistic lineage connects it to concepts of breadth and, by extension, the potential for expansive pride. However, for the biblical figure, the name's underlying meaning is more often interpreted in light of her circumstances (e.g., living in a "broad" wall, or having a "wide" reputation due to her profession) or, more profoundly, as a testament to her "broad" faith and the "wide" scope of God's redemptive grace.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The primary occurrences of H7343 are found within the book of Joshua, where Rahab plays a pivotal role in the conquest of Jericho. In [[Joshua 2:1-24]], she is introduced as a harlot who shelters two Israelite spies sent by Joshua. Despite her background and allegiance to a pagan city, Rahab demonstrates remarkable faith in the God of Israel, acknowledging His sovereignty and the impending destruction of her people ([[Joshua 2:9-11]]). Her actions are not merely pragmatic but are rooted in a clear declaration of faith: "For the Lord your God, He is God in the heavens above and on the earth beneath" ([[Joshua 2:11]]). She makes a covenant with the spies, securing safety for herself and her family in exchange for her assistance.
In [[Joshua 6:17-25]], Rahab and her household are spared during the miraculous fall of Jericho, a direct fulfillment of the spies' promise. This act of divine preservation highlights God's faithfulness to covenants and His willingness to extend mercy beyond the boundaries of Israel. The narrative explicitly states that "Joshua spared Rahab the harlot, her father’s household, and all that she had; and she has dwelt in Israel to this day" ([[Joshua 6:25]]). Her integration into the Israelite community underscores a profound theme of Gentile inclusion within God's redemptive plan.
Beyond Joshua, Rahab is honored in the New Testament. She is listed in the genealogy of Jesus Christ in [[Matthew 1:5]], identified as the mother of Boaz by Salmon. Furthermore, she is celebrated in the "hall of faith" in [[Hebrews 11:31]], where her actions are explicitly commended: "By faith the harlot Rahab did not perish with those who did not believe, when she had received the spies with peace." James also cites her as an example of faith demonstrated by works in [[James 2:25]]: "Likewise, was not Rahab the harlot also justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out another way?" These New Testament references elevate Rahab from a mere historical figure to a profound theological paradigm of justifying faith and divine grace.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related Hebrew word is H7337 (רָחָב, râchâv), the adjective meaning "broad" or "wide," from which Rahab's name is derived. This connection subtly contrasts her humble and marginalized status with the "broadness" of God's mercy extended to her.
Another related term is H7342 (רָהַב, râhab), which refers to a mythological sea monster or a symbolic name for Egypt, often associated with concepts of pride, arrogance, and chaos (e.g., [[Psalm 87:4]], [[Isaiah 51:9]]). While H7343 is the proper name of the woman, and not the mythical creature, the shared root and the "proud" aspect in the Strong's definition of H7343 suggest a linguistic connection. This creates an ironic juxtaposition: a name etymologically linked to pride or a chaotic entity becomes associated with a woman who exemplifies humility, faith, and order within God's plan.
The theological concepts intricately linked to Rahab's story include:
* **Faith (אֱמוּנָה, 'emûnâ, H530 / πίστις, pistis, G4102):** Rahab's actions are presented as a prime example of saving faith.
* **Redemption (פְּדוּת, pĕdût, H6302 / ἀπολύτρωσις, apolytrosis, G629):** Her deliverance from Jericho's destruction signifies God's redemptive power.
* **Gentile Inclusion:** Her incorporation into Israel and the lineage of Christ foreshadows the broader inclusion of Gentiles into God's covenant family.
* **Divine Providence:** God's orchestration of events to use an unlikely individual for His purposes.
* **Hospitality (הַכְנָסַת אוֹרְחִים, hakhnasat orchim):** Her act of sheltering the spies.
### Theological Significance
Rahab's story is replete with profound theological significance. First, she stands as a powerful testament to the **universal accessibility of God's grace**. Her identity as a Canaanite harlot, an outsider both ethnically and socially, underscores that salvation is not limited by lineage, social standing, or past sins. God's mercy extends to all who turn to Him in faith.
Second, Rahab exemplifies **justifying faith**. Both [[Hebrews 11:31]] and [[James 2:25]] highlight her as a paradigm of true faith—a faith that is not merely intellectual assent but is active and demonstrated through obedient works. Her belief in the God of Israel led her to courageous action, risking her life for the spies, thereby demonstrating the inseparable nature of faith and works.
Third, her inclusion in the **genealogy of Jesus Christ ([[Matthew 1:5]])** is incredibly significant. It powerfully illustrates God's sovereign plan to bring redemption through unexpected and diverse lineages, foreshadowing the multi-ethnic composition of the Church. Her presence there affirms that God uses the marginalized and the unlikely to fulfill His divine purposes, demonstrating His radical inclusivity.
Finally, Rahab's story serves as a vivid illustration of **God's covenant faithfulness**. He honored the spies' promise to her, ensuring her safety and integration into Israel. This reinforces the trustworthiness of God's word and His commitment to those who place their trust in Him, regardless of their past.
### Summary
H7343 (רָחָב, Râchâb) primarily refers to the Canaanite woman Rahab, a pivotal figure in the conquest of Jericho. While her name's etymology is linked to H7337 (broad/wide) and, by extension, the "proud" connotations of H7342 (the mythical Rahab), the biblical narrative portrays her not as proud, but as a remarkable example of faith. Her story, detailed in [[Joshua 2]] and [[Joshua 6]], showcases her courageous act of sheltering the Israelite spies, her declaration of faith in the God of Israel, and her subsequent deliverance. The New Testament profoundly elevates her status, citing her in [[Matthew 1:5]] as an ancestress of Jesus and in [[Hebrews 11:31]] and [[James 2:25]] as a prime illustration of justifying faith expressed through works. Rahab's life stands as a powerful testament to God's boundless grace, His redemptive power, and His inclusive plan of salvation that extends to all, regardless of their background, who place their trust in Him.
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