In reply to:

it seems like Anu's second citation doesn't really fit the proffered definition. it's more of just a direct reference to the walls of Jericho as opposed to it being out of the way... am I just not reading it kerecktly?

I agree, etaoin. The citation does not fit the context of the expression described. Frankly, I've never heard the expression "go to Jericho" before.....people have told me to go to other places, but never to Jericho...

The Biblical reference is from 2 Samuel 10:2-5. King David decided to send ambassadors of peace to a new, neighboring king, but his ambassadors were suspected of being spies and were ill treated.

2 Samuel 10:4-5 Wherefore Hanun took David's servants, and shaved off the one half of their beards, and cut off their garments in the middle, even to their buttocks, and sent them away.

When they told it unto David, he sent to meet them, because the men were greatly ashamed: and the king said, Tarry at Jericho until your beards be grown, and then return.