The Gibeonites were a group of people from the city of Gibeon, located in the land of Canaan. They are most notably recognized for their interaction with the Israelites during the conquest of Canaan under Joshua's leadership. The Gibeonites, aware of the Israelites' victories and the power of their God, resorted to deception to secure a peace treaty with Israel. This event is recorded in the Book of Joshua.

Deception and Treaty with Israel

The Gibeonites, fearing for their lives after hearing of the destruction of Jericho and Ai, disguised themselves as travelers from a distant land. They wore old clothes and carried moldy bread to give the impression of having journeyed from afar. They approached Joshua and the leaders of Israel, seeking a covenant of peace. Without consulting the LORD, the Israelites made a treaty with the Gibeonites, swearing an oath to let them live (Joshua 9:3-15).

Discovery and Consequences

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 their oath due to the sacredness of their promise before God. However, the Gibeonites were subjected to servitude as a consequence of their deceit. Joshua declared them to be "hewers of wood and drawers of water for the congregation and for the altar of the LORD" (Joshua 9:21).

Role in Israelite Society

The Gibeonites' role as hewers of wood and drawers of water was significant in the religious and communal life of Israel. Their service was primarily for the tabernacle, and later the temple, ensuring that the necessary resources for sacrifices and worship were available. This servitude was a perpetual reminder of their covenant with Israel and their place within the community.

Historical and Theological Significance

The account of the Gibeonites highlights several theological themes, including the importance of seeking God's guidance in decision-making and the binding nature of oaths made before Him. The Israelites' commitment to their oath, despite the Gibeonites' deception, underscores the value placed on integrity and faithfulness to one's word.

Later References

The Gibeonites reappear in the biblical narrative during the reign of King Saul and King David. Saul's violation of the treaty by attempting to annihilate the Gibeonites led to a famine during David's reign, as recorded in 2 Samuel 21. David sought to rectify this breach by avenging the Gibeonites, further emphasizing the enduring nature of the covenant made with them.

The Gibeonites' integration into Israelite society, despite their initial deception, serves as a testament to God's sovereignty and the unfolding of His plans through the history of His people.Joshua 9:20-27
This we will do to them; we will even let them live, lest wrath be on us, because of the oath which we swore to them.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Letter cviii. To Eustochium.
... moon, [2770] where also he condemned the Gibeonites (who by a ... twelve baskets of the
tribes of Israel were filled ... the children of those that are appointed to die ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/letter cviii to eustochium.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... of the Shephelah, and showed itself the most bellicose of the tribes of Israel. ... ark
of Jahveh-Sabaoth, "the Lord of Hosts."* It was a chest of wood, similar in ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem:
... and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels and names written
thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy city or the.htm

Who were Rechab and Baanah? | GotQuestions.org

Questions about 2 Samuel | GotQuestions.org

Questions about Joshua | GotQuestions.org

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus