Biblical Context:
The account of the Gibeonites becoming servants is found in the Book of Joshua, specifically in Joshua 9. This narrative occurs during the Israelite conquest of Canaan under the leadership of Joshua, following the death of Moses. The Israelites had already achieved significant victories, including the fall of Jericho and Ai, which instilled fear among the Canaanite inhabitants.

The Deception of the Gibeonites:
The Gibeonites, aware of the fate that had befallen other Canaanite cities, resorted to deception to secure a peace treaty with Israel. They disguised themselves as travelers from a distant land, wearing worn-out clothes and carrying moldy bread, to give the impression of having journeyed from afar. Their intent was to avoid destruction by making a covenant with Israel.

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?'"

The Treaty and Its Consequences:
Without seeking the counsel of the LORD, Joshua and the leaders of Israel made a peace treaty with the Gibeonites, swearing an oath to let them live. Three days later, the Israelites discovered that the Gibeonites were actually their neighbors, living within the land of Canaan.

Joshua 9:18-19 records, "But the Israelites did not attack them, because the leaders of the assembly had sworn an oath to them by the LORD, the God of Israel. Then the whole assembly grumbled against the leaders. But all the leaders answered, 'We have given them our oath by the LORD, the God of Israel, and now we cannot touch them.'"

The Role of Servants:
Despite the deception, the Israelites honored their oath, but they subjected the Gibeonites to servitude. Joshua declared that they would become woodcutters and water carriers for the congregation and for the altar of the LORD.

Joshua 9:27 states, "On that day he made them woodcutters and water carriers for the congregation and for the altar of the LORD at the place He would choose. And they are to this day."

Theological Implications:
The account of the Gibeonites highlights several theological themes. Firstly, it underscores the importance of seeking divine guidance in decision-making. The failure to consult the LORD led to an unintended alliance. Secondly, it demonstrates the binding nature of oaths made before God, as the Israelites honored their covenant despite the Gibeonites' deceit. Lastly, it reflects God's sovereignty in using even the mistakes of His people to fulfill His purposes, as the Gibeonites' servitude ultimately contributed to the worship and service of the LORD.

Historical and Cultural Insights:
The Gibeonites were part of the Hivite group, one of the Canaanite tribes. Their city, Gibeon, was significant and strategically located. The servitude imposed on the Gibeonites was a common practice in ancient Near Eastern cultures, where defeated peoples were often subjected to labor for their conquerors. The role of woodcutters and water carriers was essential for the daily operations of the tabernacle and later the temple, indicating that the Gibeonites were integrated into the religious life of Israel.

Legacy:
The Gibeonites' account is revisited in later biblical texts, such as 2 Samuel 21, where King David addresses a famine attributed to Saul's breach of the covenant with the Gibeonites. This further emphasizes the enduring nature of covenants and the importance of faithfulness to one's word before God.