Topical Bible: Gibeon: A City of the Hivites: Allotted to Benjamin

◄ Gibeon: A City of the Hivites: Allotted to Benjamin ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Gibeon was a significant city in ancient Israel, known for its strategic location and its inhabitants, the Hivites. It is frequently mentioned in the Old Testament and played a crucial role in the history of Israel during the conquest of Canaan and the period of the united monarchy.

Geographical and Historical Context

Gibeon was situated in the central hill country of Canaan, approximately 6 miles northwest of Jerusalem. Its location made it a vital city in the region, serving as a key point of control for trade routes and military movements. The city was one of the four cities of the Hivites, a Canaanite people who inhabited the land before the arrival of the Israelites.

The Gibeonite Deception

One of the most notable events involving Gibeon is the Gibeonite deception, as recorded in the Book of Joshua. The Gibeonites, fearing the advancing Israelites, resorted to a cunning plan to secure their survival. They disguised themselves as travelers from a distant land and sought a peace treaty with Joshua and the Israelites. Joshua 9:15 states, "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 made before God, but the Gibeonites were relegated to servitude as woodcutters and water carriers for the congregation and the altar of the LORD (Joshua 9:27).

Allotment to Benjamin

Following the conquest of Canaan, Gibeon was allotted to the tribe of Benjamin as part of their inheritance. Joshua 18:25 lists Gibeon among the cities given to Benjamin: "Gibeon, Ramah, Beeroth." This allocation placed Gibeon within the territory of one of the southern tribes of Israel, further integrating it into the Israelite confederation.

The Battle of Gibeon

Gibeon was also the site of a significant military encounter during the conquest of Canaan. When the Amorite kings formed a coalition to attack Gibeon for making peace with Israel, Joshua led a surprise attack to defend the city. The LORD intervened miraculously, as described in Joshua 10:12-13 , where Joshua prayed for the sun to stand still: "O sun, stand still over Gibeon, O moon, over the Valley of Aijalon. So the sun stood still and the moon stopped until the nation took vengeance upon its enemies."

Gibeon in the United Monarchy

During the reign of King David, Gibeon continued to hold importance. It was the site of a notable encounter between the forces of Joab and Abner, leading to a fierce battle (2 Samuel 2:12-17). Later, during Solomon's reign, Gibeon became a significant religious center. Solomon offered sacrifices at the high place in Gibeon, where the LORD appeared to him in a dream, granting him wisdom (1 Kings 3:4-5).

Archaeological Significance

Modern archaeological excavations at the site of ancient Gibeon, identified with the village of el-Jib, have uncovered significant findings, including a large water system and wine cellars, attesting to the city's historical and economic importance.

Gibeon's legacy in biblical history is marked by its strategic alliances, its role in Israel's military campaigns, and its religious significance during the united monarchy. Its account reflects the complex interactions between the Israelites and the indigenous peoples of Canaan, as well as the unfolding of God's providential plan for His chosen people.