Joshua 9: Group Study Handout

Overview

When the kings beyond the Jordan heard of Joshua and Israel, they united to fight against them (vv. 1-2). The inhabitants of Gibeon, fearing Israel, devised a deceptive strategy and approached Joshua, claiming to be from a far country (vv. 3-6). Israel inquired about their origins but did not seek counsel from Yahweh (vv. 7-14). Joshua made peace with the Gibeonites, swearing a covenant to let them live, despite the murmuring of the congregation (vv. 15-21). After three days, Israel discovered the Gibeonites were their neighbors, and Joshua confronted them about their deception (vv. 22-24). The Gibeonites explained their fear of Israel's conquests and accepted their fate (vv. 25-26). Joshua then assigned them as woodcutters and drawers of water for the congregation and for Yahweh’s altar (vv. 27).

Key verse

“But all the princes said to all the congregation, “We have sworn to them by Yahweh, the God of Israel. Now therefore we may not touch them.”

Joshua 9:19 (WEB)

Outline

1. Joshua 9:1–2 Coalition of Kings Against Israel
2. Joshua 9:3–6 Gibeonites' Deceptive Strategy
3. Joshua 9:7–14 Israel's Inquiry and Decision
4. Joshua 9:15–21 Covenant Made and Consequences
5. Joshua 9:22–24 Revelation of Deception
6. Joshua 9:25–27 Gibeonites' Fate and Servitude

Discussion questions

1. In v6, why do the Gibeonites claim to have come from a 'far country'?
2. What does Joshua do in v15 when he hears the Gibeonites' claims?
3. Joshua's decision in vv. 19-20: why does he prioritize the oath over the truth?
4. In v23, why does Joshua pronounce a curse on the Gibeonites after their deception?
5. When have you made a promise without fully knowing the situation, as in v15?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Joshua 9: Joshua 10, Deuteronomy 20, Joshua 6.

Before next time: read Joshua 10.