Old Testament
Joshua 9:13
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These wineskins, which we filled, were new, and now they are torn. Our clothes and sandals have become old because of the very long journey.
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And these bottles of wine, which we filled, were new; and, behold, they be rent: and these our garments and our shoes are become old by reason of the very long journey.
What Joshua 9:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Joshua 9:13, the Gibeonites are explaining to the Israelites that the wineskins they brought with them were new when they filled them, but now they are torn. This indicates that they have traveled a long distance, as their clothes and sandals have also worn out. The Gibeonites are trying to convince the Israelites that they have come from a faraway land, hoping to gain their trust and avoid conflict. This verse highlights the importance of appearances and the lengths people will go to in order to achieve their goals. It also serves as a reminder that not everything is as it seems, and one should be cautious in making judgments based solely on outward appearances.
How to apply Joshua 9:13 to your life
This verse teaches us to be discerning and not to take things at face value. Just as the Israelites were misled by the Gibeonites' worn-out items, we should be careful in our judgments and seek deeper understanding in our relationships and decisions.
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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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 9:13 reveal about the Gibeonites' strategy?
In Joshua 9:13, the Gibeonites use the condition of their wineskins, clothes, and sandals to create a deceptive narrative about their long journey. By presenting worn-out items, they aim to convince the Israelites that they come from a distant land, hoping to gain their trust and avoid conflict. This highlights their cunning strategy to manipulate appearances for their advantage.
How can we apply the lesson of Joshua 9:13 in our lives?
The lesson from Joshua 9:13 encourages us to be discerning and not to judge situations solely based on appearances. Just as the Israelites were misled by the Gibeonites' worn items, we should seek deeper understanding in our relationships and decisions. This means asking questions, seeking truth, and being cautious about accepting things at face value.
What themes are present in Joshua 9:13?
Joshua 9:13 encompasses several themes, including deception, trust, and the contrast between appearance and reality. It illustrates how appearances can be manipulated to achieve goals, emphasizing the need for discernment. The verse also reflects on the journey of the Gibeonites, highlighting the lengths individuals may go to in order to protect themselves or gain favor.
Why did the Gibeonites emphasize their worn-out items?
The Gibeonites emphasized their worn-out items in Joshua 9:13 to create a convincing story of having traveled a long distance. By showcasing their torn wineskins and old clothes, they aimed to evoke sympathy and trust from the Israelites, making it seem like they were desperate and in need of protection, rather than being a threat.
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