What is the meaning of Joshua 9:7? But the men of Israel said to the Hivites “But the men of Israel said to the Hivites”. • Israel has just conquered Jericho and Ai (Joshua 6–8), so the surrounding Canaanite nations—including the Hivites of Gibeon (Joshua 9:3)—are deeply alarmed. • The text underscores that “the men of Israel” initiate dialogue, showing their responsibility to discern truth and obey God’s directives (cf. Deuteronomy 7:1-2; Exodus 23:32). • God had explicitly forbidden covenants with the peoples of the land; the Israelites’ caution here reflects awareness of that command, even before Joshua is consulted (Joshua 9:14). Perhaps you dwell near us “‘Perhaps you dwell near us.’” • The possibility that the visitors are local triggers suspicion because proximity would put them under the ban—Israel was commanded to drive out nearby nations, not negotiate with them (Deuteronomy 20:16-18). • The word “perhaps” signals a testing of claims. Israel had heard the Gibeonites’ story of coming “from a distant land” (Joshua 9:6), yet they pause to weigh the evidence—an instructive model of discernment (Proverbs 14:15; 1 John 4:1). • This hesitation exposes the Gibeonites’ ruse: their worn-out supplies (Joshua 9:4-5) are intended to mask the truth that they live only a day’s journey away (Joshua 10:9-10). How can we make a treaty with you? “‘How can we make a treaty with you?’” • The question is rhetorical: if the Hivites are indeed neighbors, covenant is impossible without disobeying God. Deuteronomy 7:2 is explicit: “You must make no covenant with them and show them no mercy”. • The tension is practical as well as spiritual. Treaties involved mutual defense (Genesis 21:27; 1 Kings 5:12). Aligning with a Canaanite city would compromise Israel’s mission to occupy the land (Numbers 34:2). • By voicing the prohibition, the leaders affirm their accountability to God. Sadly, they will soon be deceived because they “did not seek the LORD’s counsel” (Joshua 9:14). summary Joshua 9:7 records Israel’s initial attempt to stay faithful to God’s clear command against making covenants with Canaanite neighbors. Their suspicion (“Perhaps you dwell near us”) and direct challenge (“How can we make a treaty with you?”) demonstrate proper discernment, yet their eventual failure to consult the Lord shows how human caution, unaided by prayerful dependence, can still fall short. The verse reminds believers today that obedience requires both knowing God’s Word and continually seeking His guidance. |
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