Joshua 9:21

They continued, "Let them live, but let them be woodcutters and water carriers for the whole congregation." So the leaders kept their promise.

Study Bible

They continued
This phrase indicates a continuation of a previous discussion or decision. In the context of Joshua 9, the Israelites are deliberating on how to deal with the Gibeonites, who had deceived them into making a peace treaty. The Hebrew root here suggests a persistence or determination in the decision-making process, reflecting the leaders' commitment to uphold their oath despite the deception.

Let them live
This decision reflects a merciful approach, despite the Gibeonites' deceit. The Hebrew word for "live" (חָיָה, chayah) implies not just survival but a continued existence within the community. This decision aligns with the broader biblical theme of mercy triumphing over judgment, as seen in James 2:13.

but let them be woodcutters and water carriers
This phrase outlines the specific roles assigned to the Gibeonites. Historically, these tasks were considered menial and servile, yet essential for the functioning of the community. The Hebrew context suggests a form of servitude, but not slavery, indicating a place within the community albeit with a lower status. This decision reflects a balance between justice and mercy, allowing the Gibeonites to live but also holding them accountable for their deception.

for the whole congregation
This phrase emphasizes the communal aspect of the decision. The Gibeonites' roles were to benefit the entire Israelite community, not just a select few. This reflects the biblical principle of communal responsibility and service, where every member has a role to play for the common good, as seen in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27.

So the leaders kept their promise
This final phrase underscores the importance of integrity and faithfulness to one's word. Despite the Gibeonites' deception, the leaders honored their covenant, reflecting the biblical value of keeping one's promises, as emphasized in Psalm 15:4. The Hebrew root for "kept" (שָׁמַר, shamar) implies careful guarding and observance, highlighting the leaders' commitment to uphold their oath before God and the people. This decision serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of integrity and faithfulness in leadership.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of Israel who succeeded Moses and led the Israelites into the Promised Land. He is responsible for making decisions regarding the Gibeonites.

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

3. Israelites
The people of God, led by Joshua, who are in the process of conquering the Promised Land.

4. Leaders of Israel
The elders and officials who made the decision to let the Gibeonites live and serve as woodcutters and water carriers.

5. Covenant
The agreement made between the Israelites and the Gibeonites, which was based on deception but was honored by the Israelites due to their oath before God.

Teaching Points

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

Honoring Commitments
Despite the deception, the Israelites honored their oath to the Gibeonites. This underscores the importance of integrity and keeping our promises, even when it is inconvenient.

Consequences of Deception
The Gibeonites' deception led to their servitude. This serves as a reminder that deceit can have long-lasting consequences.

God's Sovereignty in Human Affairs
Despite human error, God's plans are not thwarted. The Gibeonites' inclusion in Israel's community shows God's ability to work through imperfect situations.

Service as a Form of Redemption
The Gibeonites' role as woodcutters and water carriers allowed them to serve the community and be part of God's people, illustrating how service can be redemptive.

Bible Study Questions

1. What steps can we take to ensure we seek God's guidance in our decision-making processes, as the Israelites failed to do with the Gibeonites?

2. How can we apply the principle of honoring our commitments in our daily lives, even when circumstances change or become difficult?

3. In what ways can we guard against deception in our personal and spiritual lives, and what role does discernment play in this?

4. How does the account of the Gibeonites illustrate the concept of God's sovereignty, and how can this understanding impact our trust in His plans?

5. What are some practical ways we can serve our communities, and how can service lead to personal and communal redemption?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 20:10-11
This passage outlines the rules for making peace with distant cities, which the Israelites mistakenly applied to the Gibeonites due to their deception.

2 Samuel 21:1-6
This passage describes a later event where Saul's violation of the covenant with the Gibeonites leads to a famine, showing the long-term importance of keeping oaths.

Matthew 5:37
Jesus teaches about the importance of keeping one's word, which relates to the Israelites' commitment to their oath despite the Gibeonites' deception.