The Gibeonites were a group of people who inhabited the city of Gibeon, located in the central region of Canaan. They are most notably recognized for their interaction with the Israelites during the conquest of Canaan under Joshua's leadership. The Gibeonites are descendants of the Hivites, one of the Canaanite tribes that occupied the land before the arrival of the Israelites.

Biblical Account:

The primary biblical narrative concerning the Gibeonites is found in the Book of Joshua. As the Israelites, under Joshua's command, were conquering the land of Canaan, the Gibeonites resorted to deception to secure a peace treaty with Israel. Fearing for their lives after hearing of the Israelites' victories at Jericho and Ai, the Gibeonites disguised themselves as travelers from a distant land. They wore worn-out clothes and carried moldy bread to give the impression of having journeyed from afar. They approached Joshua and the leaders of Israel, seeking a covenant of peace.

Joshua 9:14-15 records the critical moment: "Then the men of Israel sampled their provisions, but did not seek the counsel of the LORD. And Joshua made a treaty of peace with them to let them live, and the leaders of the congregation swore an oath to them."

Upon discovering the deception, the Israelites honored the treaty due to the oath they had sworn before God, despite the Gibeonites' proximity. As a result, the Gibeonites were spared but were assigned to be woodcutters and water carriers for the congregation and the altar of the LORD (Joshua 9:21, 27).

Role and Significance:

The Gibeonites' role as servants in the tabernacle service highlights the importance of oaths and covenants in Israelite society, even when obtained through deceit. Their servitude was a perpetual reminder of the consequences of failing to seek divine guidance.

The Gibeonites later played a significant role during the reign of King Saul and King David. Saul, in his zeal for Israel, violated the covenant by attempting to annihilate the Gibeonites, which brought a famine upon Israel as divine retribution (2 Samuel 21:1-2). David sought to rectify this by asking the Gibeonites how to make amends, leading to the execution of seven of Saul's descendants, which appeased the Gibeonites and ended the famine (2 Samuel 21:3-9).

Theological Implications:

The account of the Gibeonites underscores the themes of covenant faithfulness and the importance of seeking God's guidance in decision-making. It also illustrates God's justice and mercy, as the Gibeonites, despite their initial deception, were integrated into the community of Israel and served a role in the worship of Yahweh.

Historical and Archaeological Context:

Gibeon is identified with the modern site of el-Jib, located northwest of Jerusalem. Archaeological excavations have uncovered significant remains, including a large water system, which corroborates the biblical description of Gibeon as a significant city in the region.

The Gibeonites' integration into Israelite society and their continued presence throughout Israel's history reflect the complex interactions between the Israelites and the indigenous Canaanite populations during the period of the conquest and settlement.Gib'eonite (1 Occurrence)

Nehemiah 3:7
And next unto them repaired Melatiah the Gibeonite, and Jadon the Meronothite, the men of Gibeon, and of Mizpah, for them that appertained to the throne of the governor beyond the River.
(See RSV)

Gib'eonite (1 Occurrence)
Gib'eonite. Gibeonite, Gib'eonite. Gibeonites . Multi-Version Concordance
Gib'eonite (1 Occurrence). Nehemiah 3:7 And next unto ...
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Gibeonites (7 Occurrences)

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Gibeonite (2 Occurrences)

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