Here and in v. 5 is a series of lies told in order to save life. Is this justifiable? Rahab was faced with what seemed to her a choice between a greater and a lesser evil: to share in the responsibility of the death of two men whom she believed to be messengers of God, or to tell a lie and save them. To a Christian a lie can never be justified, but to a person like Rahab light comes but gradually. There was a time when God’s people did not know of the true Sabbath, and so transgressed it. There was a time when we did not understand tithing or healthful living. “The times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent” (Acts 17:30). God accepts what is sincerely and honestly intended, even though there be a mixture of frailty and ignorance in it. Rahab’s faith was tested and it rang true. God accepts us where we are, but we must “grow in grace” 2 Peter 3:18).

Or, “had hidden them [literally, “him”],” that is, she hid each one separately in a place by himself. It would be easier to hide them separately, and also, if one was found, there was a possibility that the other might escape. Such details could have been reported only by an eyewitness.

Obviously, “had taken,” that is, before the officers arrived. Aware that the arrival of the strangers was known and that search would likely be made for them, and knowing also of their errand and having made her decision, she had already safely hidden the men where search was not likely to be made for them.