Joshua 18:6

When you have mapped out the seven portions of land and brought it to me, I will cast lots for you here in the presence of the LORD our God.

Study Bible

And when you have divided the land
This phrase refers to the task given to the Israelites to survey and partition the land of Canaan. The Hebrew root for "divided" is "חָלַק" (chalak), which means to apportion or distribute. This division was not merely a logistical task but a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It signifies the transition from wandering to settling, from promise to possession. The act of dividing the land underscores the importance of order and obedience in God's plan for His people.

into seven portions
The number seven in the Bible often symbolizes completeness or perfection, reflecting God's creation week. Here, dividing the land into seven portions indicates a complete and divinely ordained distribution. It suggests that each tribe's inheritance was part of a perfect divine plan, ensuring that all of God's people had a place in the Promised Land. This division also highlights the unity and diversity within the nation of Israel, as each tribe received a unique portion yet remained part of the whole.

bring the description here to me
Joshua, as the leader, required the surveyors to return with a detailed account of the land. The Hebrew word for "description" is "כָּתוּב" (kathub), meaning something written or inscribed. This implies a careful and precise recording of the land's features, ensuring transparency and fairness in the distribution process. It reflects the importance of accountability and stewardship in leadership, as Joshua sought to make decisions based on accurate information.

so that I may cast lots for you
Casting lots was a common biblical practice used to discern God's will. The Hebrew word "גּוֹרָל" (goral) refers to the lot or portion. This method removed human bias, allowing God to direct the outcome. It emphasizes the belief that God is sovereign over all decisions and that His guidance is sought in all matters. The casting of lots ensured that the division of the land was not only fair but divinely sanctioned.

here in the presence of the LORD our God
This phrase underscores the sacredness of the task. The presence of the LORD, "יְהוָה" (Yahweh), signifies that the division of the land was a holy act, conducted under divine supervision. It reminds the Israelites that their inheritance was a gift from God, to be received with gratitude and reverence. The presence of God in their midst was a constant reminder of His faithfulness and the covenant relationship He had with His people. This setting also served to unify the tribes under the common worship and acknowledgment of the one true God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, tasked with distributing the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel.

2. Israelites
The people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who are entering and settling in the Promised Land.

3. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, promised by God to the descendants of Abraham, now being divided among the tribes of Israel.

4. Casting Lots
A method used in ancient Israel to discern God's will, often involving stones or other objects, to make decisions or distribute land.

5. Shiloh
The place where the Israelites gathered and where the tabernacle was set up, serving as a central place of worship and decision-making.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Decision-Making
The use of lots demonstrates that God is in control of the outcomes, and we can trust Him in our decision-making processes.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites were instructed to survey the land and bring the description to Joshua, emphasizing the importance of following God's instructions precisely.

Unity and Cooperation
The division of the land required cooperation among the tribes, teaching us the value of working together in the body of Christ.

Faith in God's Provision
The Israelites had to trust that God would provide for each tribe according to His will, reminding us to have faith in God's provision for our needs.

The Role of Leadership
Joshua's leadership in this process highlights the importance of godly leadership in guiding and directing God's people.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the practice of casting lots in Joshua 18:6 reflect the Israelites' trust in God's sovereignty, and how can we apply this trust in our own decision-making today?

2. In what ways does the division of the land among the tribes of Israel demonstrate the importance of obedience to God's commands?

3. How can the cooperation required among the tribes in dividing the land serve as a model for unity within the church today?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' faith in God's provision as they settled in the Promised Land, and how can we apply these lessons to our own lives?

5. How does Joshua's role in the distribution of the land illustrate the importance of godly leadership, and what qualities should we look for in leaders within the church?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 26:52-56
This passage describes the initial command to divide the land by lot, showing the continuity of God's instructions from the wilderness to the settlement in Canaan.

Proverbs 16:33
This verse highlights the belief that the outcome of casting lots is determined by the LORD, reinforcing the idea that God is sovereign over the distribution of the land.

Acts 1:26
The casting of lots to choose a replacement for Judas Iscariot shows the continued use of this practice in seeking God's will in the early church.