Joshua 9:26

So Joshua did this and delivered them from the hands of the Israelites, and they did not kill the Gibeonites.

Study Bible

So Joshua did this
This phrase indicates Joshua's obedience and decisive action. The Hebrew root for "did" is עָשָׂה (asah), which means to accomplish or to act. Joshua's leadership is characterized by his commitment to fulfilling his promises and acting in accordance with God's will. This reflects the importance of integrity and faithfulness in leadership, as Joshua honors the covenant made with the Gibeonites despite the deception involved.

and delivered them
The word "delivered" comes from the Hebrew נָצַל (natsal), meaning to rescue or save. Joshua's decision to deliver the Gibeonites highlights the theme of mercy and grace. Despite their deceit, the Gibeonites are spared, illustrating God's compassion and the value of keeping one's word. This act of deliverance is a foreshadowing of the ultimate deliverance found in Christ, who rescues humanity from sin.

from the hands of the Israelites
The phrase "from the hands" signifies power or control. In the ancient Near Eastern context, the "hands" often symbolize strength and authority. The Israelites, as God's chosen people, had the power to execute judgment. However, Joshua's intervention shows a balance between justice and mercy, teaching us about the importance of discernment and compassion in exercising authority.

and they did not kill them
This final phrase underscores the outcome of Joshua's decision. The Hebrew verb for "kill" is הָרַג (harag), which means to slay or destroy. The restraint shown by the Israelites in not killing the Gibeonites is a testament to the power of covenant and the sanctity of life. It serves as a reminder of the value God places on life and the importance of honoring commitments, even when made under less than ideal circumstances.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, tasked with leading the people into the Promised Land. Known for his faithfulness and obedience to God.

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

3. Israelites
The chosen people of God, led by Joshua, who were conquering the land of Canaan as God had commanded.

4. Canaan
The land promised by God to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, which the Israelites were in the process of conquering.

5. Treaty
An agreement made between the Israelites and the Gibeonites, which was based on deception but was honored by Joshua and the leaders of Israel.

Teaching Points

Integrity in Leadership
Joshua's decision to honor the treaty, despite the deception, demonstrates the importance of integrity and keeping one's word, even when it is difficult.

Consequences of Deception
The Gibeonites' deception led to their servitude, illustrating that deceit can have long-lasting consequences.

God's Sovereignty
Despite human errors and deception, God's plans and purposes prevail. The Gibeonites became servants, which ultimately served God's purposes for Israel.

Grace and Mercy
Joshua's sparing of the Gibeonites can be seen as an act of mercy, reflecting God's character and His willingness to extend grace.

Discernment in Decision-Making
The Israelites' failure to seek God's counsel before making the treaty serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking divine guidance in our decisions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joshua's response to the Gibeonites' deception reflect the biblical principle of keeping one's word, and how can we apply this in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the account of the Gibeonites illustrate the consequences of deception, and how can we guard against deceit in our own interactions?

3. How does the eventual role of the Gibeonites as servants in Israel demonstrate God's sovereignty and ability to use all situations for His purposes?

4. What can we learn from the Israelites' failure to seek God's counsel before making the treaty, and how can we apply this lesson to our decision-making processes?

5. How does the account of the Gibeonites and the Israelites connect to Jesus' teaching in the New Testament about truthfulness and integrity?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 7:1-2
This passage outlines God's command to the Israelites to destroy the inhabitants of Canaan and make no treaties with them, highlighting the seriousness of the Gibeonites' deception.

2 Samuel 21:1-6
This passage describes a later consequence of Saul's violation of the treaty with the Gibeonites, showing the long-term impact of Joshua's decision to honor the treaty.

Matthew 5:37
Jesus teaches about the importance of keeping one's word, which connects to Joshua's decision to honor the treaty despite the deception.