Joshua 9:19

All the leaders answered, "We have sworn an oath to them by the LORD, the God of Israel, and now we cannot touch them.

Study Bible

But all the leaders answered
This phrase indicates a collective response from the leaders of Israel. The Hebrew word for "leaders" here is "נְשִׂיאִים" (nasi'im), which refers to those in positions of authority and responsibility. In the context of ancient Israel, these leaders were expected to uphold the laws and commands of God, serving as representatives of the people's covenant relationship with Him. Their unified answer underscores the gravity of the situation and the importance of their decision-making process.

We have given them our oath
The concept of an "oath" in Hebrew is "שְׁבוּעָה" (shevu'ah), which is a solemn promise or vow made before God. In the ancient Near Eastern context, oaths were binding and sacred, often invoking divine witnesses to ensure their fulfillment. The leaders' acknowledgment of the oath highlights the seriousness with which they regarded their commitments, reflecting a deep understanding of the moral and spiritual implications of breaking such a vow.

by the LORD, the God of Israel
This phrase emphasizes the divine authority and sacredness of the oath. The use of "LORD" (YHWH) signifies the covenant name of God, reminding the Israelites of their unique relationship with Him. "The God of Israel" further reinforces this identity, as it denotes the God who chose Israel as His people and delivered them from Egypt. By invoking God's name, the leaders recognize that their oath is not merely a human agreement but a covenantal promise with divine accountability.

and now we cannot touch them
The phrase "cannot touch them" reflects the leaders' recognition of the inviolability of their oath. The Hebrew word for "touch" is "נָגַע" (naga'), which can imply harm or violation. In this context, it signifies the leaders' understanding that any action against the Gibeonites would constitute a breach of their solemn promise. This decision demonstrates their commitment to integrity and faithfulness, even when faced with the consequences of their earlier deception by the Gibeonites.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites, who succeeded Moses and led the people into the Promised Land. He is responsible for making decisions on behalf of the Israelites.

2. The Gibeonites
A group of people from the city of Gibeon who deceived the Israelites into making a peace treaty with them by pretending to be from a distant land.

3. The Israelites
The people of God, who are in the process of conquering the Promised Land as commanded by God.

4. The Leaders of the Assembly
The elders and leaders of Israel who are responsible for upholding the covenant made with the Gibeonites.

5. The Covenant
An agreement made between the Israelites and the Gibeonites, which was sworn in the name of the LORD.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Integrity
The Israelites' decision to honor their covenant with the Gibeonites, despite being deceived, underscores the importance of integrity and keeping one's word. As believers, we are called to uphold our commitments, reflecting God's faithfulness.

The Consequences of Rash Decisions
Joshua and the leaders failed to seek God's guidance before making the covenant. This serves as a reminder to seek divine wisdom in our decisions to avoid unintended consequences.

God's Sovereignty in Our Mistakes
Despite the Israelites' error, God used the situation for His purposes. This teaches us that God can redeem our mistakes and work them for good.

The Role of Leadership
The leaders of Israel had to make a difficult decision to uphold the covenant. This highlights the responsibility of leaders to act with integrity and wisdom, even in challenging situations.

The Power of Oaths
The Israelites' commitment to their oath, even when it was made under false pretenses, demonstrates the seriousness with which God views our promises. We should be careful and deliberate in making commitments.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of the Gibeonites challenge us to seek God's guidance in our decision-making processes?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate integrity in our daily lives, even when it is difficult or inconvenient?

3. How can we learn to trust in God's sovereignty when we make mistakes or face unexpected challenges?

4. What lessons can we learn from the leaders of Israel about the responsibilities and challenges of leadership?

5. How does the concept of keeping one's word, as seen in this passage, relate to Jesus' teaching in the New Testament about honesty and integrity?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 7:2
This passage commands the Israelites to make no covenants with the inhabitants of the land, highlighting the tension between God's command and the covenant made with the Gibeonites.

Psalm 15:4
This verse speaks to the importance of keeping one's oath even when it is costly, which relates to the Israelites' decision to honor their covenant with the Gibeonites.

Matthew 5:37
Jesus teaches about the importance of letting one's "yes" be "yes," emphasizing the integrity and truthfulness expected of God's people.