יהושע, פרק ב׳, פסוק כ״ב

After narrowly escaping Jericho, the spies carefully follow Rahab's instructions to ensure their safe return. They head toward the mountainous region west of the city. Meanwhile, their pursuers search the main road heading east from Jericho toward the Jordan River, scouring the path back and forth. Because the two groups travel in opposite directions, the pursuers completely miss them [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

The spies move with calculated caution rather than rushing blindly into a hiding spot. They initially hike past the mountain to scan the surrounding area, making sure no enemies are lying in ambush. Once they confirm the area is clear, they return to the mountain to hide in complete safety. God's protection remains with them throughout the journey; even when they eventually leave their hiding place, they do not encounter a single local resident who might suspect their true identities [אלשיך].

This decision to hide raises a deeper question. When the spies first approached the city, they walked confidently and without fear, relying fully on God. Why act like frightened fugitives now? Their behavior is actually a calculated spiritual defense rather than a display of panic. The Canaanites had cast spells designed to force the Israelites into a retreat. Because a curse of witchcraft must take effect in at least some small measure, the spies deliberately act out a retreat by running and hiding. This symbolic flight absorbs the impact of the spell, completely neutralizing the curse so it cannot harm the rest of the nation [אהבת יהונתן].

After waiting in the mountains for three days, the spies return to the Israelite camp. They deliver a detailed report of their experiences, their sworn promise to Rahab, and the overwhelming fear that has gripped the Canaanites. However, they share this sensitive information only with Joshua, keeping it hidden from the rest of the people, as the entire mission was meant to be a strict secret from the very beginning [אברבנאל].