“When ye go, ye shall come unto a people secure, and to a large land: for God hath given it into your hands; a place where there is no want of anything that is in the earth.”
Context:In this verse, we find a description given by the spies of the tribe of Dan who were sent to scout out the land for potential conquest. To understand the significance of this verse, it’s important to provide some context. The book of Judges takes place during the period of Israel’s history after they entered the Promised Land but before the establishment of a united kingdom under Saul, David, and Solomon. During this time, Israel was organised into various tribes, and the book of Judges recounts the cyclical pattern of their disobedience, oppression by foreign nations, and subsequent deliverance by judges whom God raised up.
In Judges 18, we read about the tribe of Dan seeking an inheritance for themselves because they had not yet received a portion of land. They sent five men as spies to explore the land and find a suitable place to settle. As they came upon the city of Laish, they noticed that its people dwelled securely and possessed a large land.
Now, let’s break down the verse itself and explore its significance:
“When ye go, ye shall come unto a people secure”: The spies observed that the people of Laish lived in a state of security. This means that they dwelled in peace, without immediate threats or ongoing conflicts. This security may have made the city an appealing target for conquest.
“And to a large land”: The spies also noted that the land of Laish was extensive. This suggests that it was a fertile and spacious territory, which would be advantageous for the tribe of Dan as they sought a place to settle.
“For God hath given it into your hands”: This statement implies that the spies believed God had granted them victory over the people of Laish. They recognised that God was able to deliver the land into their possession, just as He had done in the past for the other tribes of Israel.
“A place where there is no want of anything that is in the earth”: This phrase emphasises the abundance and prosperity of the land. It suggests that the land of Laish was rich in resources, providing for the needs and desires of its inhabitants.
Overall, Judges 18:10 portrays the spies’ positive report of the land they scouted. It describes a secure and spacious territory, seen as a favourable opportunity for the tribe of Dan to establish their inheritance. The spies acknowledged God’s role in giving them victory and highlighted the land’s abundant provision.
It’s important to note that while the spies focused on the physical aspects of the land, their reliance on God’s guidance and recognition of His sovereignty demonstrate the underlying spiritual theme. Throughout the book of Judges, we see that Israel’s success in conquering and possessing the Promised Land was dependent on their faithfulness and obedience to God’s commands.
