Judges 18:9

They answered, "Come on, let us go up against them, for we have seen the land, and it is very good. Why would you fail to act? Do not hesitate to go there and take possession of the land!

Study Bible

They answered
This phrase indicates a response from the spies sent by the tribe of Dan. In the Hebrew context, the word for "answered" (עָנָה, 'anah) often implies a thoughtful or deliberate response. It suggests that the spies had carefully considered their report and were confident in their assessment. This reflects the importance of communal decision-making in ancient Israelite society, where leaders and representatives played crucial roles in guiding the tribe.

Come on, let us go up against them
The phrase "let us go up" (נַעֲלֶה, na'aleh) is a call to action, often used in military contexts. It reflects the urgency and determination of the Danites to claim their inheritance. Historically, the tribe of Dan struggled to secure their allotted territory, as described earlier in the Book of Judges. This call to action underscores their resolve to find a new homeland, highlighting the challenges faced by the Israelites in fully possessing the Promised Land.

for we have seen the land
The act of seeing (רָאָה, ra'ah) in Hebrew often implies understanding or perceiving beyond mere physical sight. The spies' report is based on firsthand observation, lending credibility to their claim. This echoes the earlier narrative of the twelve spies sent by Moses, where seeing the land was crucial in assessing its potential. The emphasis on seeing underscores the importance of direct experience and evidence in making decisions.

and indeed, it is very good
The description "very good" (טוֹבָה מְאֹד, tovah me'od) echoes the language of Genesis, where God declares His creation "very good." This suggests that the land is not only fertile and desirable but also divinely appointed for the Danites. The goodness of the land is a recurring theme in the Bible, symbolizing God's provision and blessing. It serves as a reminder of the abundance and promise inherent in God's plans for His people.

Will you do nothing?
This rhetorical question challenges the Danites to take action. It reflects a sense of urgency and impatience, urging the tribe not to miss the opportunity before them. The question implies that inaction would be a failure to trust in God's provision. In the broader biblical narrative, such calls to action often serve as tests of faith and obedience, prompting the Israelites to rely on God's promises.

Do not hesitate
The command "do not hesitate" (אַל־תֵּעָצְלוּ, al-te'atzlu) is a direct exhortation against procrastination or fear. In the Hebrew context, hesitation can imply a lack of faith or courage. This command encourages the Danites to move forward with confidence, trusting in God's guidance. It serves as a reminder that faith often requires decisive action and trust in God's timing.

to go there and take possession of the land
The phrase "take possession" (וִירִשְׁתֶּם, virishtem) is a legal term in Hebrew, often used in the context of inheritance. It implies not just occupying the land but establishing rightful ownership as ordained by God. This reflects the covenantal promise given to the Israelites, where the land is both a gift and a responsibility. The call to take possession underscores the active role the Israelites must play in fulfilling God's promises, balancing divine provision with human agency.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Danites
A tribe of Israel seeking a new territory to inhabit because they had not yet received their full inheritance.

2. Laish
The land observed by the Danite spies, described as good and prosperous, yet isolated and vulnerable.

3. Spies
Men sent by the tribe of Dan to scout the land of Laish and report back on its suitability for conquest.

4. Zorah and Eshtaol
The original territory of the Danites, from where they set out to find a new land.

5. Micah's House
A location earlier in the chapter where the Danites encounter a Levite priest, which plays a role in their journey.

Teaching Points

Diligence in Pursuing God's Promises
The Danites' initiative to seek out and claim their inheritance reminds us of the importance of actively pursuing the promises God has for us.

The Danger of Complacency
The exhortation, "Why are you sitting here doing nothing?" challenges us to examine areas of spiritual complacency in our lives.

Trust in God's Provision
The description of the land as "very good" encourages us to trust that God's provisions are abundant and sufficient for our needs.

Strategic Action in Faith
The Danites' strategic approach to taking possession of the land teaches us the value of planning and acting in faith.

Community and Leadership
The collective decision-making and leadership among the Danites highlight the importance of unity and guidance in pursuing God's direction.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the Danites' search for a new land reflect our own spiritual journey in seeking God's promises?

2. In what ways can we identify and overcome complacency in our spiritual lives, as urged by the Danites' call to action?

3. How does the account of the Danites relate to the broader biblical theme of trusting in God's provision?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Danites about the importance of community and leadership in pursuing God's plans?

5. How can we apply the principles of diligence and strategic action in our personal and communal faith journeys?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 18
The allocation of land to the tribes of Israel, highlighting the incomplete settlement of the Danites.

Numbers 13
The sending of spies into Canaan, paralleling the Danites' reconnaissance of Laish.

Proverbs 6:6-11
The call to action against laziness, similar to the Danites' urging to take possession of the land.

Hebrews 11:8-10
The faith of Abraham in seeking a promised land, reflecting the Danites' journey to claim their inheritance.