Joshua 9:17
And the children of Israel journeyed, and came unto their cities on the third day. Now their cities were Gibeon, and Chephirah, and Beeroth, and Kirjath–jearim.
Joshua 9:17 (KJV)
Context
The book of Joshua records events after Moses’ death, as Israel prepared to enter and conquer the Promised Land. In Joshua 9:17, the children of Israel journeyed and came to the cities of Gibeon, Chephirah, Beeroth, and Kirjath-jearim on the third day. These four cities formed the Gibeonite league, with Gibeon as the principal city. The phrase “on the third day” marks the time since the treaty was made, not the total journey from their previous camp. The main camp remained at Gilgal, and this journey was an investigative action to verify that the Gibeonites were indeed neighbors.
Meaning
This verse is the climax of the Gibeonite deception narrative. The Gibeonites, fearing Israel’s God-given victories at Jericho and Ai, disguised themselves as travelers from a distant land and sought a peace treaty. Joshua and the leaders made a covenant without seeking the Lord’s counsel. The journey to their cities on the third day reveals the discovery of the deception. The leaders had sworn an oath in the name of the LORD God of Israel, and despite the deceit, they upheld it, sparing the Gibeonites and making them hewers of wood and drawers of water. This demonstrates the binding nature of oaths made before God, even when entered into under deception.
Biblical connections
The cities listed in this verse held lasting significance. Kirjath-jearim later served as a boundary marker between Judah and Benjamin and as a resting place for the ark of the covenant. Gibeon became a notable city in Israel’s history. The narrative also highlights the leaders’ failure to seek direction from the Lord before making the treaty, a critical omission that led to this predicament.
Application
This incident reminds believers of the importance of seeking God’s guidance in every decision. The Israelites’ failure to consult God resulted in a covenant with a deceitful nation, causing complications later. It also warns of the dangers of deception and the need for discernment. Believers should be cautious of deceitful tactics and vigilant in seeking truth. Despite being deceived, Joshua and the Israelites honored their commitment, demonstrating the significance of honoring commitments even under less than ideal circumstances. God remained faithful to His people, using the situation to teach lessons about faithfulness, obedience, and the consequences of decisions made without consulting Him.
Reflection
Joshua 9:17 records the arrival of the Israelites at the cities of Gibeon, Chephirah, Beeroth, and Kirjath-jearim, not realizing they had been deceived. This verse serves as a reminder to seek God’s guidance, be cautious of deception, honor commitments, and trust in God’s faithfulness even when mistakes are made. The Gibeonites became servants in the house of God, showing that God can bring good even from human error.
