Joshua 9:4

They did worke wilily, and went and made as if they had beene embassadours, and tooke old sackes vpon their asses, and wine-bottels, old, and rent, and bound vp, Joshua 9:4 (KJV)

“And they did craftily, and went and made as if they had been ambassadors, and took old sacks upon their asses, and wine bottles, old, and rent, and bound up; and old shoes and clouted upon their feet, and old clothes upon them; and all the bread of their provision was dry and mouldy.” This verse is part of the narrative in the book of Joshua, which describes the conquest of the land of Canaan by the Israelites after the death of Moses. In Joshua 9, we encounter a specific incident involving the Gibeonites, who were inhabitants of the land. This verse highlights the deceptive strategy employed by the Gibeonites to avoid destruction by the Israelites. The Gibeonites, realizing that the Israelites were a formidable force, sought to protect themselves by entering into a treaty with them. Instead of engaging in open warfare, they devised a cunning plan. They disguised themselves as ambassadors from a distant land, pretending to have traveled a long distance and being in need of a covenant with Israel. The verse describes how the Gibeonites acted deceitfully by using worn‑out sacks, patched wine bottles, old shoes, worn clothing, and dry, moldy bread. These props were intended to give the impression that they had traveled from a far‑off land and that their journey had been arduous and lengthy. By doing so, they hoped to convince the Israelites that they were not native to the land and thus escape the impending destruction that other nearby nations faced. It is important to note that in the subsequent verses, the Israelites, unaware of the deception, made a treaty with the Gibeonites, agreeing to let them live. However, when the ruse was discovered, the Israelites honoured their oath but made the Gibeonites servants within the community. This episode serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the consequences of hastily making decisions without seeking guidance from God. The Israelites failed to consult the Lord before making a treaty, and as a result, they were deceived by the Gibeonites. It underscores the importance of seeking divine wisdom and discernment in all matters, even when things appear to be favourable or urgent. Overall, Joshua 9:4 teaches us the significance of exercising wisdom, discernment, and seeking God’s guidance in all circumstances, lest we fall prey to deception and make unwise decisions.