Gibeon was a significant city in ancient Canaan, inhabited by the Hivites, one of the groups of people living in the land before the arrival of the Israelites. The city is notably mentioned in the context of its interactions with Israel during the conquest of Canaan and later events in the history of Israel.

Geographical and Historical Context

Gibeon was located in the central hill country of Canaan, approximately 6 miles northwest of Jerusalem. It was a prominent city, known for its strategic location and its large pool, which played a role in various biblical narratives. The city was part of a confederation of Hivite cities, which also included Chephirah, Beeroth, and Kiriath-jearim (Joshua 9:17).

The Gibeonite Deception

One of the most notable events involving Gibeon is the Gibeonite deception. As the Israelites, led by Joshua, were conquering the land of Canaan, the Gibeonites resorted to a cunning plan to secure their survival. They disguised themselves as travelers from a distant land and sought to make a treaty with Israel. Joshua and the leaders of Israel, without seeking the counsel of the LORD, made a peace treaty with them (Joshua 9:3-15). When the deception was discovered, the Israelites honored the treaty but made the Gibeonites woodcutters and water carriers for the congregation and the altar of the LORD (Joshua 9:16-27).

Gibeon in the Time of David

Gibeon also plays a role in the narrative of King David. After the death of Saul, there was a long war between the house of Saul and the house of David. During this period, a significant event occurred at the pool of Gibeon, where a fierce battle took place between the forces of Joab, David's commander, and Abner, the commander of Saul's army (2 Samuel 2:12-17). This battle was part of the larger conflict that eventually led to David's consolidation of power over all Israel.

Later, during David's reign, a famine struck the land, and the LORD revealed that it was due to Saul's breach of the treaty with the Gibeonites, as he had sought to annihilate them in his zeal for Israel and Judah. To atone for this sin, David handed over seven of Saul's descendants to the Gibeonites, who executed them (2 Samuel 21:1-9). This act was seen as necessary to lift the divine judgment from the land.

Religious Significance

Gibeon held religious significance as well. It was the location of the great high place where Solomon offered a thousand burnt offerings. It was here that the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream, granting him wisdom and discernment (1 Kings 3:4-15). This event marked the beginning of Solomon's renowned wisdom and his prosperous reign over Israel.

Archaeological Insights

Modern archaeological excavations at the site of Gibeon, identified with the village of el-Jib, have uncovered significant findings, including the large water system mentioned in the biblical narrative. These discoveries provide valuable insights into the city's historical and cultural context during the biblical period.

Gibeon's legacy in the biblical narrative is multifaceted, encompassing themes of deception, conflict, divine justice, and religious devotion. Its interactions with Israel highlight the complexities of the conquest and settlement of Canaan, as well as the enduring consequences of covenantal relationships.1 Chronicles 14:16
David therefore did as God commanded him: and they smote the host of the Philistines from Gibeon even to Gazer.
Nave's Topical Index

Why did Solomon worship at a high place? | GotQuestions.org

Is it true that the sun stood still? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Abner in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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