Joshua 18:8

As the men got up to go out, Joshua commanded them to map out the land, saying, "Go and survey the land, map it out, and return to me. Then I will cast lots for you here in Shiloh in the presence of the LORD."

Study Bible

As the men got up to go out
This phrase marks a moment of action and obedience. The men, representing the tribes of Israel, are responding to Joshua's command to survey the land. The Hebrew root for "got up" (קוּם, qum) often signifies rising to action or fulfilling a purpose. This is a pivotal moment where faith is put into action, reflecting the biblical principle that faith without works is dead (James 2:26). The historical context here is significant as it demonstrates the Israelites' readiness to claim the inheritance promised to them by God, a fulfillment of the covenant made with Abraham.

Joshua commanded them
Joshua, as the leader appointed by God after Moses, carries the authority to direct the people. The Hebrew word for "commanded" (צָוָה, tsavah) implies a directive that is not merely a suggestion but an authoritative order. This reflects the structure of leadership and obedience that is central to the community of Israel. Joshua's role is not just administrative but deeply spiritual, guiding the people in alignment with God's will.

Go and survey the land
The instruction to "survey the land" involves a detailed exploration and mapping of the territory. The Hebrew word for "survey" (תוּר, tur) can also mean to spy or explore, reminiscent of the earlier exploration of Canaan by the twelve spies (Numbers 13). This task is both practical and spiritual, as it involves recognizing the physical boundaries of their inheritance and trusting in God's provision. It underscores the importance of preparation and understanding in the fulfillment of God's promises.

and write a description of it
Writing a description involves documenting the land's features, boundaries, and resources. The act of writing (כָּתַב, kathab) is significant in biblical history as it preserves God's instructions and the people's history. This task ensures that the inheritance is clearly defined and remembered, preventing future disputes. It highlights the value of record-keeping and the written word in maintaining the covenant community's integrity.

then return to me
The phrase "return to me" indicates a cycle of obedience and accountability. The men are to complete their task and report back to Joshua, ensuring that their actions align with his instructions. This reflects the biblical principle of stewardship, where individuals are accountable to their leaders and ultimately to God. It emphasizes the importance of community and collective responsibility in the journey of faith.

I will cast lots for you here
Casting lots was a common biblical practice for making decisions or determining God's will. The Hebrew word for "lots" (גוֹרָל, goral) suggests a divinely guided process, ensuring that the division of the land is fair and according to God's plan. This method underscores the belief in God's sovereignty and providence, trusting that He directs the outcomes for His purposes.

in the presence of the LORD
This phrase signifies that the entire process is conducted with a consciousness of God's presence and authority. The Hebrew word for "presence" (פָּנִים, panim) often implies being before the face of God, indicating reverence and submission. It serves as a reminder that all actions and decisions are ultimately accountable to God, reinforcing the sacredness of the task and the land as a divine gift.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, tasked with leading the people into the Promised Land and overseeing its division among the tribes.

2. The Men
Representatives from the tribes of Israel who were sent to survey the land to ensure a fair distribution.

3. Shiloh
A significant religious and cultural center for the Israelites at the time, where the tabernacle was located and where the lots were cast.

4. The Land
Refers to the Promised Land, which was to be divided among the tribes of Israel.

5. Casting Lots
A method used to discern God's will in the distribution of the land, ensuring that the division was seen as divinely ordained.

Teaching Points

Obedience to Leadership
Joshua's command to the men to survey the land demonstrates the importance of following godly leadership. In our lives, we should respect and follow those whom God has placed in authority over us.

Divine Guidance
The casting of lots in the presence of the LORD underscores the need to seek God's guidance in decision-making. We should prioritize prayer and discernment in our choices.

Community Involvement
The involvement of representatives from each tribe in the surveying process highlights the importance of community participation in achieving common goals. We should actively engage in our communities and contribute to collective efforts.

Faith in God's Provision
The division of the land among the tribes is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. We can trust that God will provide for our needs according to His will.

Stewardship of Resources
The careful surveying and description of the land remind us of the importance of being good stewards of the resources God has entrusted to us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joshua's leadership style in this passage reflect principles of godly leadership, and how can we apply these principles in our own leadership roles?

2. In what ways can we seek God's guidance in our decision-making processes today, similar to the casting of lots in Joshua 18:8?

3. How does the involvement of the community in the surveying of the land inform our understanding of the role of community in achieving God's purposes?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's provision in your life. How does this passage encourage you to trust in God's promises?

5. What steps can we take to ensure we are being good stewards of the resources and opportunities God has given us, as seen in the careful surveying of the land?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 26
This chapter provides the census of the Israelites, which is foundational for understanding the division of the land based on the size of each tribe.

Proverbs 16:33
This verse highlights the belief that casting lots is a way to discern God's will, reinforcing the divine aspect of the land distribution.

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 guidance.