Topical Bible: Treaty: Between Nations: Israelites and Gibeonites

◄ Treaty: Between Nations: Israelites and Gibeonites ►

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Background and Context:
The treaty between the Israelites and the Gibeonites is a significant event recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Joshua. This event occurs during the Israelite conquest of Canaan, a land promised to them by God. The Israelites, under the leadership of Joshua, were commanded to conquer and occupy the land, driving out its current inhabitants. The Gibeonites, aware of the fate that had befallen other Canaanite cities, sought to secure their survival through a deceptive treaty with the Israelites.

Biblical Account:
The account of the treaty is found in Joshua 9. The Gibeonites, fearing the advancing Israelite army, resorted to deception to protect themselves. They disguised themselves as travelers from a distant land, wearing worn-out clothes and carrying moldy bread, to give the impression that they had come from far away. They approached Joshua and the leaders of Israel, seeking to make a covenant of peace.

Joshua 9:6-7 states: "They went to Joshua in the camp at Gilgal and said to him and the men of Israel, 'We have come from a distant land; now make a treaty with us.' But the men of Israel said to the Hivites, 'Perhaps you dwell among us. How can we make a treaty with you?'"

Despite their initial skepticism, the Israelites, without seeking the counsel of the LORD, entered into a treaty with the Gibeonites, swearing an oath to let them live. Joshua 9:14-15 records: "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."

Consequences and Significance:
Three days after making the treaty, the Israelites discovered that the Gibeonites were actually their neighbors, living within the land of Canaan. Despite the deception, the Israelites honored the treaty because they had sworn an oath before God. Joshua 9:18-19 explains: "But the Israelites did not attack them, because the leaders of the congregation had sworn an oath to them by the LORD, the God of Israel. Then the whole congregation grumbled against the leaders."

The Gibeonites were spared but were assigned to be woodcutters and water carriers for the congregation and the altar of the LORD. This decision demonstrated the Israelites' commitment to their oath, highlighting the importance of keeping one's word, especially when made in the name of the LORD.

Theological Implications:
The treaty with the Gibeonites serves as a reminder of the necessity of seeking God's guidance in all decisions. The Israelites' failure to consult the LORD led to an unintended alliance, yet their adherence to the oath reflects the biblical principle of faithfulness to one's promises. This event underscores the sovereignty of God, who can use even human error to fulfill His divine purposes.

Furthermore, the Gibeonites' integration into Israelite society, albeit in a servile role, illustrates God's mercy and the possibility of inclusion for those outside the covenant community, foreshadowing the broader inclusion of Gentiles in God's redemptive plan.

Nave's Topical Index

Joshua 9:3-15
And when the inhabitants of Gibeon heard what Joshua had done to Jericho and to Ai,
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Library

Covenanting a Duty.
... Israelites were forbidden to enter into treaty with the ... To whatever extent the
Israelites may have sinned ... Lawful oaths between nations, or between a people and ...
/.../cunningham/the ordinance of covenanting/chapter iii covenanting a duty.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... much to fear from the bands of undisciplined Israelites wandering in their
neighbourhood. Properly speaking, there were no pitched battles between them, but ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm