Old Testament
Joshua 9:11
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So our elders and everyone in our country told us, 'Take food for the journey and go meet them. Tell them, "We are your servants; please make a covenant with us."'
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Wherefore our elders and all the inhabitants of our country spake to us, saying, Take victuals with you for the journey, and go to meet them, and say unto them, We are your servants: therefore now make ye a league with us.
What Joshua 9:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Gibeonites are following the advice of their leaders. They prepare provisions for a journey to meet the Israelites, who are led by Joshua. The Gibeonites plan to present themselves as servants to the Israelites and request a covenant or alliance. This reflects their fear of the Israelites, who have been conquering neighboring lands. By claiming to be servants, they hope to secure their safety and avoid destruction. This strategy shows their cunning and desire to survive in a hostile environment. The act of making a covenant was significant in ancient times, as it established a formal agreement that would bind both parties. The Gibeonites' approach highlights the importance of diplomacy and negotiation in times of conflict, as well as the lengths to which people will go to protect themselves and their communities.
How to apply Joshua 9:11 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of wise counsel and preparation in our decisions. Just as the Gibeonites sought advice from their elders, we should seek guidance from trusted sources when facing challenges. Additionally, it reminds us to be aware of our surroundings and the potential consequences of our actions.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joshua's story: The Gibeonites' Trick (Joshua 9:1–27)
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Joshua
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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Keep studying Joshua 9:11
Related Bible verses
At a Glance — the Book of Joshua
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Joshua and later compilers
- Written
- Around 1400-1370 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites entering Canaan
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Joshua 9:11 teach about seeking advice?
Joshua 9:11 illustrates the importance of seeking wise counsel, as the Gibeonites consulted their elders before taking action. This highlights that in times of uncertainty or danger, turning to trusted leaders or mentors for guidance can lead to better decision-making and outcomes.
Why did the Gibeonites pretend to be servants?
The Gibeonites pretended to be servants to the Israelites as a survival strategy. They feared the Israelite conquests and sought to secure their safety by forming a covenant. By presenting themselves as humble servants, they aimed to avoid destruction and ensure their community's survival in a hostile environment.
What is the significance of making a covenant in Joshua 9:11?
Making a covenant in ancient times was a serious commitment that established a formal agreement between parties. In Joshua 9:11, the Gibeonites sought a covenant with the Israelites to ensure their protection. This act signifies the importance of alliances and the lengths people will go to secure safety and stability.
How does Joshua 9:11 relate to themes of diplomacy?
Joshua 9:11 reflects the theme of diplomacy as the Gibeonites engage in negotiation to protect themselves. Their approach of presenting themselves as servants to request a covenant demonstrates the strategic use of communication and relationship-building in conflict situations, emphasizing the value of diplomacy in achieving peace.
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