The instructions for occupying Canaan, as detailed in the Old Testament, are a significant aspect of Israel's history and God's covenantal promises. These instructions are primarily found in the books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy, where God provides specific guidelines to the Israelites on how to enter, conquer, and settle in the Promised Land.

Divine Promise and Command

The promise of Canaan as a homeland for the descendants of Abraham is a central theme in the Bible. God first made this promise to Abraham in Genesis 12:7, saying, "To your offspring I will give this land." This promise is reiterated to Isaac and Jacob, establishing a divine mandate for the Israelites to inherit Canaan.

In Exodus 3:8, God speaks to Moses from the burning bush, declaring His intention to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage and bring them "to a good and spacious land, a land flowing with milk and honey." This promise is not only a gift but also a command, as seen in Deuteronomy 1:8: "See, I have set the land before you. Enter and possess the land that the LORD swore He would give to your fathers—to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—and to their descendants after them."

Preparation and Purification

Before entering Canaan, the Israelites are instructed to prepare themselves spiritually and physically. In Numbers 33:50-53, God commands Moses to instruct the people: "Drive out all the inhabitants of the land before you. Destroy all their carved images and cast idols, and demolish all their high places. You are to take possession of the land and settle in it, for I have given you the land to possess."

The Israelites are also called to maintain purity and holiness, as seen in Leviticus 18:24-28, where God warns them not to defile themselves with the practices of the nations they are to dispossess. The land itself is described as being defiled by the abominations of its current inhabitants, and Israel is to be distinct and set apart.

Conquest and Settlement

The conquest of Canaan is to be carried out under God's direct guidance. In Joshua 1:2-3, God commands Joshua, "Arise, cross over the Jordan, you and all the people, into the land that I am giving to the children of Israel. I have given you every place where the sole of your foot will tread, just as I promised to Moses."

The Israelites are to rely on God's strength and not their own. In Deuteronomy 20:1-4, they are reminded that the LORD their God goes with them to fight for them against their enemies. The conquest is to be thorough, as incomplete obedience would lead to future problems, as warned in Numbers 33:55: "But if you do not drive out the inhabitants of the land, those you allow to remain will become barbs in your eyes and thorns in your sides."

Covenantal Faithfulness

The occupation of Canaan is deeply tied to Israel's covenantal relationship with God. Deuteronomy 28 outlines blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience. The land is a gift contingent upon Israel's faithfulness to God's laws and commands. In Deuteronomy 6:10-12, the Israelites are reminded to remember the LORD who brought them out of Egypt and to keep His commandments as they enjoy the prosperity of the land.

Cultural and Religious Separation

God's instructions emphasize the need for cultural and religious separation from the Canaanite nations. In Deuteronomy 7:1-6, the Israelites are commanded not to intermarry with them or adopt their practices, as these would lead them away from worshiping the one true God. The Israelites are to be a holy people, chosen by God to be His treasured possession.

These instructions for occupying Canaan reflect God's sovereign plan for His people, emphasizing obedience, holiness, and reliance on His promises. The narrative of Israel's conquest and settlement in Canaan serves as a testament to God's faithfulness and the importance of covenantal fidelity.