“The Israelites sampled their provisions but did not inquire of the LORD.”
— Joshua 9:14 (New International Version)
Chapter 9 of Joshua recounts the curious yet instructive saga of Israel’s encounter with the Gibeonites, a Canaanite group who craftily deceived Joshua and the Israelite leaders into securing a peace treaty. At first glance, this chapter might seem simply a matter of political deception, but deeper truths lie embedded in the subtle details.
It’s valuable to understand that ancient Near Eastern nations recognized treaties and covenants as sacred commitments before their gods. When the Israelites unknowingly entered a covenant with the Gibeonites under deceitful pretenses, they felt religiously obligated to uphold the promise—even after discovering they had been manipulated. Breaking such covenants was seen as dishonoring God Himself.
Additionally, the Gibeonites’ emphasis on worn-out sandals, old wineskins, and moldy bread wasn’t accidental; in ancient times, these provided verifiable proof of an extended journey, as no supplies could stay fresh for prolonged travels. The deception was clever and culturally convincing. Archaeological excavations at today’s el-Jib (likely ancient Gibeon) confirm fortified settlements, indicating the Gibeonites’ reason to fear the Israelite invasion.
We see here a clear mistake made by the leaders of Israel: “they did not inquire of the LORD.” This passage is sobering. Israel had recently learned the painful lessons of Ai’s defeat (Joshua 7); yet human nature remained prone to settle again into independence and self-reliance. One would think that after Ai, Joshua would adopt a perpetual habit of seeking God’s direction. Yet Joshua—and indeed all believers—are prone to rely on visible evidence, clever presentations, or emotionally persuasive arguments (1 Samuel 16:7). Samuel’s similar oversight when looking at Jesse’s impressive sons reminds us that God’s wisdom surpasses outward appearances.
Several theological themes emerge from this narrative:
God Honors Covenants and Promises: Even covenants made foolishly or under unwise circumstances remain binding before God. Much later, Israel suffers consequences because King Saul violates this covenant (2 Samuel 21:1-14). Our commitments—before God and others—carry great significance.
Presumption Dangerously Replaces Dependence on God: Joshua 9 reveals the temptation toward presumption. Presumption involves acting without consulting God, innocently assuming God’s blessing without bothering to ask. Historical Christian thinkers, such as John Calvin, frequently warned of presumption, calling believers always to cautious dependence on divine counsel.
Grace in Unexpected Forms: Remarkably, the deceptive Gibeonites weren’t destroyed or cast aside. Though their deception led to servanthood (“hewers of wood and drawers of water”), the Gibeonites became incorporated into Israel, eventually serving at God’s altar and sanctuary (Joshua 9:27). God’s providence transformed even human failings into His redemptive purposes.
A brief look at Hebrew usage is insightful: - The Hebrew word translated “inquire” in Joshua 9:14 (“sha’al,” שָׁאַל) encompasses careful seeking, investigating, and even praying. The failure to “sha’al” the LORD implies negligence in deliberate spiritual discernment.
For believers today, Joshua 9 emphasizes our desperate need for discernment, reminding us never to make decisions based solely on superficial evidence or our finite wisdom. We must constantly guard our hearts against presumption, remaining humble before God. Even the most seasoned of saints must consistently inquire of the Lord, leaning upon God’s wisdom rather than human judgment.
Reflect with the hymn “Be Thou My Vision,” especially the line “Be Thou my wisdom, and Thou my true word.” This hymn beautifully encapsulates the importance of daily dependence on God’s wisdom and guidance.
Heavenly Father, forgive me for the times that I lean on human understanding and fail to seek Your counsel. Protect me from presumption and pride. Give me wisdom and discernment so that I might honor You in every decision. Remind me daily to inquire of You first, and help me see Your grace at work even amid my frailties. In Christ’s name I pray, Amen.