Joshua 11:19

No city made peace with the Israelites except the Hivites living in Gibeon; all others were taken in battle.

Study Bible

No city made peace
This phrase highlights the resistance of the Canaanite cities against the Israelites. The Hebrew root for "peace" is "shalom," which implies not just the absence of conflict but a state of wholeness and harmony. The refusal of these cities to seek peace with Israel can be seen as a rejection of the opportunity for reconciliation and integration into the blessings of God's covenant people. Historically, this reflects the hardened hearts of the Canaanites, who chose to oppose God's plan rather than submit to it.

with the Israelites
The term "Israelites" refers to the descendants of Jacob, also known as Israel. This designation emphasizes their identity as God's chosen people, set apart to fulfill His promises. The Israelites' conquest of Canaan was not merely a territorial expansion but a divine mandate to establish a nation through which God would reveal Himself to the world. The resistance of the Canaanite cities underscores the spiritual battle between God's purposes and human rebellion.

except the Hivites living in Gibeon
The Hivites, specifically those from Gibeon, are noted as the exception. The Hebrew term for "Hivites" is "Chivvi," one of the Canaanite tribes. The Gibeonites' decision to make peace with Israel, as recorded earlier in Joshua 9, was a strategic move to ensure their survival. This act of seeking peace, albeit through deception, ultimately led to their preservation and integration into Israel. It serves as a reminder of God's mercy and the possibility of redemption for those who seek Him, even imperfectly.

all others were taken in battle
This phrase indicates the comprehensive nature of the conquest. The Hebrew word for "battle" is "milchamah," which encompasses the idea of warfare and struggle. The complete subjugation of these cities demonstrates the fulfillment of God's promise to give the land to the Israelites. It also reflects the seriousness of God's judgment against the Canaanites for their persistent idolatry and wickedness. The conquest serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of opposing God's will and the ultimate triumph of His purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites, tasked with conquering the Promised Land. He is a central figure in the book of Joshua, known for his faithfulness and obedience to God.

2. Israelites
The people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who are entering and conquering the Promised Land as God commanded.

3. Hivites
A group of Canaanite people who lived in the region. The Hivites of Gibeon made a treaty with Israel through deception, as described earlier in Joshua 9.

4. Gibeon
A significant city in Canaan whose inhabitants, the Hivites, made peace with Israel through a deceptive treaty, thus avoiding destruction.

5. Canaan
The land promised by God to the descendants of Abraham, which the Israelites are in the process of conquering under Joshua's leadership.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
Joshua's leadership exemplifies obedience to God's commands, even in warfare. Believers are called to follow God's guidance in all areas of life.

The Consequences of Deception
The Gibeonites' deception led to their survival, but it also brought them into servitude. This teaches the importance of honesty and the long-term consequences of deceit.

God's Sovereignty in Conquest
The account underscores God's control over the events in Canaan. Believers can trust in God's sovereignty in their own lives, knowing He orchestrates events for His purposes.

Peace and Reconciliation
The peace made with Gibeon, though achieved through deception, highlights the possibility of reconciliation. Christians are called to be peacemakers, seeking reconciliation where possible.

The Importance of Discernment
The Israelites' failure to seek God's counsel regarding the Gibeonites serves as a reminder of the need for discernment and prayer in decision-making.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of the Gibeonites in Joshua 9 and 11 illustrate the importance of seeking God's guidance in our decisions?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of obedience to God's commands, as demonstrated by Joshua, in our daily lives?

3. What lessons can we learn from the Gibeonites' deception about the consequences of dishonesty and the importance of integrity?

4. How does the concept of God's sovereignty in the conquest of Canaan provide comfort and assurance in the challenges we face today?

5. Reflect on a situation where you needed discernment. How can the account of the Israelites and the Gibeonites inform your approach to seeking God's wisdom in similar situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 9
This chapter provides the background on how the Gibeonites, a group of Hivites, deceived the Israelites into making a peace treaty with them. This is crucial for understanding why Gibeon was spared.

Deuteronomy 20
Offers instructions on warfare, including the treatment of cities that are far away versus those in the land of Canaan. This context helps explain the Israelites' approach to the conquest.

Exodus 23
God’s promise to drive out the inhabitants of the land gradually, which ties into the broader account of Israel's conquest and settlement.