They approach Joshua seeking mercy under false pretenses.
In this verse, the Gibeonites recount how they were instructed by their own leaders to approach Joshua seeking a treaty. They say, “So our elders and all the inhabitants of our country spoke to us, saying, ‘Take provisions in your hand for the journey, and go to meet them and say to them, “We are your servants; now then, make a covenant with us.”’” (v.11). This statement explains that the decision to journey and feign distant origins was not just an individual plot but a communal strategy. It highlights their eagerness for protection and their desire to align themselves with the Israelites in a formal agreement. The Gibeonites choose their words carefully, describing themselves as humble servants in a play to secure safety for their people.
Notably, this conversation unfolds within the broader narrative centered on the land of Canaan, a region roughly corresponding to modern-day Israel and surrounding territories. The Gibeonites lived in Gibeon, located approximately six miles northwest of Jerusalem, an important settlement during this time. They deceived Joshua, who was Moses’ successor (circa 1400 BC), by pretending to be from a far-off land. Joshua’s leadership can be placed right after Moses’ death, around 1406 BC, marking the conquest phase of the Promised Land. By asking for a covenant, the Gibeonites sought to avoid the fate of other local peoples whom the Israelites had defeated.
The phrase, “We are your servants” (v.11) also implies a posture of humility. Yet, this outward humility masks their ruse. In Jesus’ teaching in the New Testament, He warns against deceitful appearances (Matthew 7:15), making this an example in the Old Testament where a disguised intention underlies seemingly respectful language. Even so, the Gibeonites’ request triggers an important lesson for Israel: relying on God for discernment is vital in every decision.
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Joshua 9:11 meaning
In this verse, the Gibeonites recount how they were instructed by their own leaders to approach Joshua seeking a treaty. They say, “So our elders and all the inhabitants of our country spoke to us, saying, ‘Take provisions in your hand for the journey, and go to meet them and say to them, “We are your servants; now then, make a covenant with us.”’” (v.11). This statement explains that the decision to journey and feign distant origins was not just an individual plot but a communal strategy. It highlights their eagerness for protection and their desire to align themselves with the Israelites in a formal agreement. The Gibeonites choose their words carefully, describing themselves as humble servants in a play to secure safety for their people.
Notably, this conversation unfolds within the broader narrative centered on the land of Canaan, a region roughly corresponding to modern-day Israel and surrounding territories. The Gibeonites lived in Gibeon, located approximately six miles northwest of Jerusalem, an important settlement during this time. They deceived Joshua, who was Moses’ successor (circa 1400 BC), by pretending to be from a far-off land. Joshua’s leadership can be placed right after Moses’ death, around 1406 BC, marking the conquest phase of the Promised Land. By asking for a covenant, the Gibeonites sought to avoid the fate of other local peoples whom the Israelites had defeated.
The phrase, “We are your servants” (v.11) also implies a posture of humility. Yet, this outward humility masks their ruse. In Jesus’ teaching in the New Testament, He warns against deceitful appearances (Matthew 7:15), making this an example in the Old Testament where a disguised intention underlies seemingly respectful language. Even so, the Gibeonites’ request triggers an important lesson for Israel: relying on God for discernment is vital in every decision.