Topical Bible: Oath: The Israelites Confirm the Covenant With the Hivites

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In the biblical narrative, the concept of an oath holds significant weight, often serving as a solemn promise or commitment made before God. One notable instance of an oath in the Old Testament is the covenant made between the Israelites and the Hivites, specifically the Gibeonites, as recorded in the Book of Joshua.

Context and Background

Following the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River and the subsequent conquest of Jericho and Ai, the Israelites, under the leadership of Joshua, were advancing into the Promised Land. The surrounding Canaanite nations, aware of the Israelites' divine backing and military successes, were understandably fearful. In response, the Gibeonites, a group of Hivites, devised a cunning plan to secure their survival.

The Deceptive Covenant

The Gibeonites, recognizing the threat posed by the Israelites, resorted to deception to protect themselves. They disguised themselves as travelers from a distant land, wearing worn-out clothes and carrying moldy provisions, and approached Joshua and the Israelite leaders at Gilgal. Their intent was to make a treaty of peace with Israel. The Gibeonites said to Joshua, "We have come from a distant land; now make a treaty with us" (Joshua 9:6).

Despite the Israelites' initial skepticism, they were ultimately swayed by the Gibeonites' appearance and account. Crucially, the Israelites "did not inquire of the LORD" (Joshua 9:14) before making their decision. Consequently, Joshua made a peace treaty with them and the leaders of the assembly ratified it with an oath.

The Binding Nature of the Oath

Three days after the treaty was made, the Israelites discovered the true identity of the Gibeonites and their proximity. Despite the deception, the leaders of Israel upheld the oath they had sworn, recognizing the binding nature of their promise before God. The assembly grumbled against the leaders, but the leaders responded, "We have given them our oath by the LORD, the God of Israel, and now we cannot touch them" (Joshua 9:19).

This decision underscores the seriousness with which oaths were regarded in ancient Israelite society. The leaders' commitment to their word, even when obtained under false pretenses, reflects a deep respect for the sanctity of an oath made in the name of the LORD.

Consequences and Divine Approval

As a result of the covenant, the Gibeonites were spared from destruction but were assigned to be woodcutters and water carriers for the community and the altar of the LORD. This arrangement was a fulfillment of the oath while also serving as a reminder of the Gibeonites' deception.

The narrative of the Israelites' oath to the Gibeonites illustrates the importance of seeking divine guidance in decision-making and the irrevocable nature of oaths made before God. It also highlights the ethical and spiritual obligations that accompany such commitments, demonstrating the Israelites' adherence to their word despite the circumstances.

Theological Implications

The episode with the Gibeonites serves as a profound lesson on the integrity and faithfulness expected of God's people. It emphasizes the necessity of consulting God in all matters and the moral imperative to honor one's commitments. The Israelites' experience with the Gibeonites is a testament to the enduring principle that oaths, especially those made in the name of the LORD, are to be upheld with the utmost seriousness and fidelity.

Nave's Topical Index

Joshua 9:3-20
And when the inhabitants of Gibeon heard what Joshua had done to Jericho and to Ai,
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Library

Covenanting a Duty.
... To whatever extent the Israelites may have sinned by ... into church fellowship, which
include an oath, and the ... Lord's table, do, in each case, confirm a covenant ...
/.../cunningham/the ordinance of covenanting/chapter iii covenanting a duty.htm