“Wherefore our elders and all the inhabitants of our country spake to us, saying, Take victuals with you for the journey, and go to meet them, and say unto them, We are your servants: therefore now make ye a league with us.”
Context: The book of Joshua tells the story of the Israelites’ conquest of the Promised Land under the leadership of Joshua. In this particular passage, Joshua and the Israelites are preparing to attack the city of Ai after their victory at Jericho. However, the Gibeonites, a nearby Canaanite tribe, decide to deceive Joshua and make a treaty with Israel.
Deception of the Gibeonites: The Gibeonites had heard about the mighty victories of Israel and were fearful for their own lives. Instead of fighting against Israel, they resorted to a plan of deception. They disguised themselves, took old sacks, and patched their clothes and sandals to appear as if they had travelled from a faraway land. They approached Joshua and the Israelites, pretending to be from a distant country, and requested to make a covenant of peace with them.
The Request for a Treaty: In verse 11, the Gibeonites explain that their elders and inhabitants advised them to take provisions and go to meet the Israelites. They were instructed to present themselves as servants and ask for a league, or a treaty, with Israel. The Gibeonites hoped to secure their safety and avoid being destroyed by the Israelites.
Joshua’s Response: Despite the Gibeonites’ deceitful approach, Joshua and the Israelite leaders did not seek guidance from the Lord but relied solely on their own judgment. They examined the evidence presented to them, including the old provisions and worn-out clothes, and did not consult God through prayer or the priestly Urim and Thummim. Consequently, they made a treaty with the Gibeonites without seeking the Lord’s counsel.
