Commentary on Joshua 9:11

Full Verse: "And 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, therefore, make a covenant with us.'

Introduction

This passage from Joshua 9:11 occurs during the time of Israel's conquest of Canaan. It reflects the strategy employed by the Gibeonites to secure a covenant with the Israelites. The verse encapsulates the Gibeonites' plea for alliance and demonstrates the tactical maneuvering of nations facing impending invasion.

Background Context

Understanding the historical context is essential for interpreting this verse correctly. The Gibeonites, fearing the overwhelming power of Israel under Joshua and the miraculous victories attributed to them, crafted a plan to deceive the Israelites into forming an alliance.

• Joshua's Campaign: As Israel entered the Promised Land, they faced numerous city-states and nations. The conquest was marked by divine intervention, which the surrounding nations recognized.
• Moral Dilemma: The Gibeonites' actions pose ethical questions regarding deceit in diplomacy. Their approach contrasts with the straightforward warfare expected during this historical period.

The Gibeonites' Strategy

Seeking Survival: The Gibeonites represent those who, understanding the dire situation they face, employ cunning to survive. They sent representatives to Joshua, as stated in the verse, stating they were merely lowly servants seeking a covenant.

Matthew Henry comments on the Gibeonites' humility in their approach, emphasizing their awareness of their own vulnerability and their clever manipulation of circumstances to gain favor with Israel.

Significance of Provisions

The instructions given to prepare provisions symbolize preparation and the seriousness of their undertaking:

• Symbolism of Provisions: Provisions suggest not just physical supplies but also signify a need for spiritual and numerical affirmation of their goodwill.
• Authenticity vs. Deception: The act of taking provisions also raises questions about authenticity—were they truly prepared for the journey, or were they cloaking deceit in the act?

Theological Implications

This verse poses significant theological questions regarding covenant relationships. The covenantality portrayed invites reflection on:

• God's Sovereignty: God's overarching plan incorporates even the deceitful actions of men, leading each toward a divine purpose.
• The Nature of Alliances: Relationships forged through subterfuge can exemplify God’s grace, for the Gibeonites were later incorporated into the people of Israel.

Reflections from Commentators

Albert Barnes elucidates that the Gibeonites’ actions, albeit deceptive, underscore a desperate but calculated attempt at preservation. His commentary also points out that the notion of service in the ancient world carried weight and could be interpreted as a vow to fidelity.

Adam Clarke adds the perspective of human innovation in the face of divine events. He notes that while their method might be deemed morally questionable, it illustrates a profound understanding of the dire consequences of human conflict and the willingness to adapt to survive.

Conclusion

In summary, Joshua 9:11 acts as a pivotal verse that reflects not only the historical context of Israel's conquest but also raises significant ethical and theological questions relevant to contemporary readers.

This commentary amalgamates insights from various public domain scholars, aiming to encourage deeper study and reflection among pastors, students, and theologians, prompting them to consider not just the actions of the Gibeonites, but also the broader implications of covenant, faith, and divine purpose in their own lives.