Rahab, what evidence is there she was a "Gentile?"

[Zenas]

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I did a site search re:Rahab first, but no results that deals w/this question:

It is assumed by every reference I have checked that Rahab was a "Gentile." Other than the fact she was in Jericho, I can find no evidence of her ethnicity. Any clues?

Rahab is often mentioned as "proof" that Gentiles are included in the genealogy of Christ and therefore are to be included in the gospel message. How can it be established that Rahab was indeed a "gentile?"

[wmfinck]

There was already a dispersion of Israel throughout the oikoumenê. Wherever the Egyptians had control of territory - as the inscriptions show that the Egyptians had a large presence in Canaan before the time of the Exodus, one was probably going to find Israelites. many - including myself - point to the scarlet thread as a sign that Rahab may well have belonged to the Zarah branch of the tribe of Judah, as the scarlet thread was their symbol. There is also compelling evidence that Rahab was an innkeeper, and no harlot, as the same words were used to describe both. I would recommend Clifton Emahiser's Watchman's Teaching Letter #120 for a complete treatment of the topic.

[Zenas]

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Yes, I read CE #120, but he only addresses the harlot / innkeeper issue, and not whether Rahab was a "Gentile" or Israelite. As you point out, my guess was she was an Israelite, but I could find no Scripture to support my hunch. Until your scarlet thread, that is - a good clue. I'll check this line of thought further.

Yawweh gives us this dots to connect. I think He enjoys watching us figure out the puzzle as He reveals more clues - little by little - to us.

I've got much catching up to do.

thanks again.

edit: ah yes, Genesis 38:29-30 "And afterward came out his brother, that had the scarlet thread upon his hand: and his name was called Zarah."

Excellent!