2:1 Shittim. The site is a reminder of a time when Israel was guilty of harlotry (both physical and spiritual; Num. 25:1–3), a time not forgotten in this book (22:17).

spies. The role of these spies is as unusual as the conquest that is to follow. Both their role and the conquest are shaped by the promise of God. See their report in v. 24. Cf. Num. 13:17–20.

prostitute . . . Rahab. The narrative does not say why they chose Rahab’s house. She is remembered in the New Testament as an ancestor of Christ (Matt. 1:5), and as an example of faith (Heb. 11:31) and good works (James 2:25).