The Salvific Role of Rahab in the Conquest Narratives (Joshua 2-6): A Model for African Christian Women Leaders

Abstract

Salvation is the hallmark of Christianity which should be extended to others. God is the orchestrator of this salvation but human beings are the recipients and catalysts which also includes the women. The word savific in its etymological meaning from the Latin word salficus meaning salvation, is being able or intending to provide salvation or redemption. Therefore, this paper examined the salvific role of Rahab in the conquest narratives of the Israelites in Jericho. Historical critical method and exegetical approach were adopted in this study; these methods have helped in deciphering the world behind the text in the African context. A close reading of the text showed that the salvific role of Rahab was indeed apparent in the conquest narratives. She was catalyzed by God’s universal plan of salvation, God’s tool of deliverance, and the fulfillment of God’s promise to the Israelites’ ancestors, and she was portrayed as a patroness of salvation. The role Rahab played in working out her salvation, the spies and her entire family, made her and her entire family members become members of the Israelites’ covenant community, enlisted her in their genealogy and was naturally recognized as a rare Heroine of faith and salvation. The study thus recommended that African Christian women leaders should prioritize the salvation of others in their various ecclesiastical positions of leadership beginning with their families, as this would enhance the better future of Christianity in Africa.