The survey and description of the land in the Bible primarily refer to the detailed accounts of the Promised Land, Canaan, as given to the Israelites by God. This process is significant in understanding the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs and the establishment of Israel as a nation.

Biblical Context

The survey of the land is first mentioned in the context of God's promise to Abraham. In Genesis 13:14-17 , God instructs Abraham to look in all directions and promises, "All the land that you see, I will give to you and your offspring forever." This promise is reiterated to Isaac and Jacob, establishing a divine covenant that the land of Canaan would belong to their descendants.

The Role of Moses and Joshua

The formal survey and description of the land occur during the leadership of Moses and Joshua. In Numbers 13, Moses sends twelve spies, one from each tribe, to explore Canaan. The spies return with a report of a land "flowing with milk and honey" (Numbers 13:27), but also inhabited by formidable peoples. This initial reconnaissance, however, results in a lack of faith among the Israelites, delaying their entry into the land.

Under Joshua's leadership, the survey takes on a more structured approach. After the conquest of Canaan, Joshua is tasked with dividing the land among the tribes of Israel. Joshua 18:4 records Joshua's command to appoint three men from each tribe to "go and make a survey of the land and write a description of it." This systematic approach ensures that each tribe receives its inheritance according to God's instructions.

Methodology and Division

The survey involved both physical exploration and the creation of written records. The men appointed for this task were to traverse the land, noting its features, resources, and boundaries. Joshua 18:9 states, "So the men went and passed through the land, and wrote its description in a book, town by town, in seven portions."

The division of the land was conducted by casting lots at Shiloh, in the presence of the Lord, ensuring that the distribution was seen as divinely ordained (Joshua 18:10). This method underscored the belief that God was actively involved in the allocation of the land, fulfilling His promise to the patriarchs.

Significance in Israelite Identity

The survey and description of the land were not merely administrative tasks but were deeply theological acts. They represented the tangible fulfillment of God's covenant promises. The land was a gift from God, a place where the Israelites could live in obedience to His laws and serve as a light to the nations.

The detailed descriptions of boundaries and cities, as found in Joshua 13-21, emphasize the importance of the land in Israel's identity. Each tribe's inheritance was a testament to God's faithfulness and a reminder of their unique role within the covenant community.

Theological Implications

The survey and description of the land highlight several key theological themes. First, they affirm God's sovereignty and faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. Second, they underscore the importance of obedience and faith in receiving God's blessings. The Israelites' initial failure to trust in God's provision delayed their inheritance, while Joshua's leadership in faith and obedience facilitated the successful division of the land.

Furthermore, the land serves as a symbol of rest and blessing, a foretaste of the ultimate rest promised to God's people. The survey and description of the land thus point forward to the eschatological hope of a new creation, where God's people will dwell with Him in perfect harmony.