Joshua and
the Angel; Rahab Helps the Israelite Spies
5th century, with
medieval and modern restorations
Mosaic
Nave,
Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome
The upper image portrays the visit of the "prince of the host of the
Lord" to Joshua before the conquest of Jericho. See Joshua
5:13-15 (cached). The
lower image shows Rahab the Prostitute (wearing green and standing on
the battlements of the city) helping an Israelite spy climb down the
wall. On the left, the spy arrives and gives his information to Joshua.
See Joshua,
chapter 2 (cached).
This
is part of the
extensive series of Old Testament scenes portrayed in mosaics along the
two walls of the nave. Click here for
links to several of the others.
More of Joshua
Photographed at the
site by Richard Stracke