Biblical Context:
Gibeon's call for help is a significant event recorded in the Book of Joshua, specifically in Joshua 10. This event occurs during the Israelite conquest of Canaan under the leadership of Joshua. The Gibeonites, having previously secured a peace treaty with Israel through deception (Joshua 9), find themselves in dire need of assistance when they are threatened by a coalition of Amorite kings.

Historical Background:
Gibeon was a major city in the land of Canaan, known for its strategic location and significant influence. The Gibeonites, aware of the Israelites' victories over Jericho and Ai, sought to protect themselves by forming an alliance with Israel. They did so by pretending to be from a distant land and securing a covenant of peace with Joshua and the Israelites (Joshua 9:3-15).

The Threat:
The news of Gibeon's treaty with Israel alarmed the surrounding Amorite kings. Adoni-Zedek, king of Jerusalem, fearing the growing power of Israel and the defection of Gibeon, formed an alliance with four other Amorite kings: Hoham of Hebron, Piram of Jarmuth, Japhia of Lachish, and Debir of Eglon. Together, they launched an attack on Gibeon to punish it for aligning with Israel and to prevent further Israelite expansion (Joshua 10:1-5).

Gibeon's Plea:
In response to the imminent threat, the Gibeonites sent an urgent message to Joshua at the Israelite camp in Gilgal: "Do not abandon your servants. Come up to us quickly and save us! Help us, for all the Amorite kings living in the hill country have joined forces against us" (Joshua 10:6). This plea highlights the Gibeonites' reliance on the covenant they had made with Israel and their trust in Joshua's leadership.

Joshua's Response:
Joshua, honoring the treaty with the Gibeonites, immediately mobilized his troops and marched from Gilgal to Gibeon. The Lord reassured Joshua, saying, "Do not be afraid of them, for I have delivered them into your hand. Not one of them shall stand against you" (Joshua 10:8). This divine assurance underscores the faithfulness of God to His promises and His support for Israel's endeavors.

The Battle:
The Israelites launched a surprise attack on the Amorite coalition, and the Lord intervened miraculously on their behalf. As the Amorites fled, God sent hailstones from the sky, killing more of the enemy than the Israelites did with the sword (Joshua 10:11). Furthermore, in one of the most extraordinary events recorded in Scripture, Joshua prayed for the sun to stand still, and God granted his request, allowing the Israelites to achieve a complete victory (Joshua 10:12-14).

Theological Significance:
Gibeon's call for help and the subsequent battle illustrate several key theological themes. First, it demonstrates the importance of covenant faithfulness, as Joshua honored the treaty with the Gibeonites despite their initial deception. Second, it highlights God's sovereignty and power, as He intervenes supernaturally to ensure Israel's victory. Lastly, it serves as a testament to God's faithfulness to His people, providing assurance and deliverance in times of need.

References:
· Joshua 9-10 (Berean Standard Bible)
· Historical and archaeological studies on ancient Gibeon and the Amorite kingdoms