20 But if you tell what we are doing, we will be released from the oath you made us swear."
20 And if thou utter this our business, then we will be quit of thine oath which thou hast made us to swear.
20 But if you tell this business of ours, then we shall be guiltless with respect to your oath that you have made us swear."
20 But if you tell anyone of our business here, the oath you made us swear is canceled - we're no longer responsible."
20 And if you tell this business of ours, then we will be free from your oath which you made us swear."
20 If you betray us, however, we are not bound by this oath in any way."
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Joshua 2:20
Commentary on Joshua 2:8-21
(Read Joshua 2:8-21)
Rahab had heard of the miracles the Lord wrought for Israel. She believed that his promises would certainly be fulfilled, and his threatenings take effect; and that there was no way of escape but by submitting to him, and joining with his people. The conduct of Rahab proved that she had the real principle of Divine faith. Observe the promises the spies made to her. The goodness of God is often expressed by his kindness and truth, Psalm 117:2; in both these we must be followers of him. Those who will be conscientious in keeping promises, are cautious in making them. The spies make needful conditions. The scarlet cord, like the blood upon the doorpost at the passover, recalls to remembrance the sinner's security under the atoning blood of Christ; and that we are to flee thereto for refuge from the wrath of a justly offended God. The same cord Rahab used for the saving of these Israelites, was to be used for her own safety. What we serve and honour God with, we may expect he will bless, and make useful to us.