Joshua 9:12

This bread of ours was warm when we packed it at home on the day we left to come to you. But take a look, it is now dry and moldy.

Study Bible

This bread of ours
The phrase "this bread of ours" signifies the sustenance and provision that the Gibeonites brought with them. In the Hebrew context, bread (Hebrew: "lechem") is often symbolic of life and sustenance. Bread was a staple in the ancient Near Eastern diet, representing the basic necessities of life. The Gibeonites' reference to their bread highlights their attempt to deceive the Israelites by emphasizing their supposed long journey, which is a central theme in this narrative.

was warm when we packed it
The warmth of the bread when packed suggests freshness and immediacy. In the ancient world, bread was baked daily, and its warmth would indicate recent preparation. The Gibeonites use this detail to craft a convincing story, implying that their journey was so long that even fresh bread had become old. This detail is crucial in their deception, as it appeals to the Israelites' senses and understanding of daily life.

on the day we left to come to you
This phrase underscores the urgency and immediacy of the Gibeonites' supposed departure. The mention of "the day we left" is intended to convey a sense of haste and determination. Historically, such a journey would require careful planning and provision, and the Gibeonites' claim is designed to evoke empathy and trust from the Israelites, suggesting a long and arduous journey undertaken with sincerity.

But take a look
The invitation to "take a look" is a direct appeal to the Israelites' sense of sight and judgment. It is a call to examine the evidence presented before them. In the context of ancient covenants and agreements, visual inspection was a common practice to verify claims. The Gibeonites cleverly use this tactic to reinforce their story, knowing that the physical state of the bread would support their narrative.

it is now dry and moldy
The description of the bread as "dry and moldy" serves as tangible evidence of the Gibeonites' fabricated long journey. In the Hebrew context, moldy bread (Hebrew: "nikkudim") would be seen as undesirable and a sign of neglect or extended travel. This imagery is powerful, as it contrasts sharply with the initial description of warm bread, emphasizing the supposed length and difficulty of their journey. The Gibeonites' deception hinges on this transformation, which they hope will convince the Israelites of their sincerity and need for a treaty.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Gibeonites
A group of people from the city of Gibeon who deceived Joshua and the Israelites into making a peace treaty with them by pretending to be from a distant land.

2. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites who succeeded Moses and led the people into the Promised Land. He was responsible for making decisions regarding treaties and warfare.

3. Israelites
The people of God who were commanded to conquer the land of Canaan and were instructed not to make treaties with the inhabitants of the land.

4. Canaan
The land promised to the Israelites by God, which they were in the process of conquering under Joshua's leadership.

5. Deception
The act carried out by the Gibeonites to secure a treaty with Israel, which involved presenting old provisions to appear as if they had traveled from a distant land.

Teaching Points

Discernment in Decision-Making
The Israelites failed to seek God's guidance before making a treaty with the Gibeonites. This teaches the importance of seeking divine wisdom in our decisions.

Consequences of Deception
The Gibeonites' deception led to a binding treaty. This illustrates how deceit can lead to unintended and long-lasting consequences.

The Importance of Obedience
The Israelites were instructed not to make treaties with the Canaanites. This event underscores the importance of adhering to God's commands.

God's Sovereignty and Grace
Despite the deception, God used the situation for His purposes, showing His ability to work through human mistakes.

Integrity in Relationships
The account encourages maintaining honesty and integrity in our interactions, reflecting Christ-like character.

Bible Study Questions

1. What steps can we take to ensure we seek God's guidance in our decision-making processes, as seen in the failure of the Israelites to consult God in Joshua 9?

2. How does the account of the Gibeonites' deception challenge us to examine our own honesty and integrity in our daily interactions?

3. In what ways can the consequences of the Israelites' treaty with the Gibeonites serve as a warning about the long-term effects of our decisions?

4. How does the account of the Gibeonites relate to the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty and ability to use human actions for His purposes?

5. Reflecting on the Israelites' experience, how can we better adhere to God's commands in our lives, and what resources (scriptural or otherwise) can help us in this pursuit?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 20:10-18
Provides the laws regarding warfare and treaties, highlighting why the Israelites were not to make treaties with the inhabitants of Canaan.

Exodus 23:32-33
Warns the Israelites against making covenants with the inhabitants of the land, which would lead them away from God.

2 Samuel 21:1-6
Discusses the consequences of breaking a treaty with the Gibeonites, showing the long-term impact of the covenant made in Joshua 9.