JOSHUA 9

THE ISRAELITES DECEIVED BY THE GIBEONITES

The people of Gibeon, a nearby city, hear about Israel’s victory over Jericho and Ai. Attempting to make peace with the Israelites, the Gibeonites wear their most tattered clothing and pretend to have arrived from a faraway nation. The Israelites make a covenant with them, promising not to harm them.

Three days after making this promise, Joshua realizes that they are not from a distant nation, but are from a nearby city. Angry with their lies, Joshua confronts the Gibeonites. Because they heard of God’s plan to give the land to the Israelites, they wanted to make peace and find safety among the Israelites. Joshua is frustrated that the Gibeonites lied, but allows them to serve as wood-cutters and water-collectors.

Although the Gibeonites lied, they acknowledged that it was better to be a lowly servant among God’s people than die a prideful death.