Judges 18:9

They answered, "Come on, let us go up against them, for we have seen the land, and it is very good. Why would you fail to act? Do not hesitate to go there and take possession of the land!

Study Bible

They answered, “Come on, let us go up against them,
This phrase reflects the response of the spies sent by the tribe of Dan to explore the land. The call to "go up against them" indicates a readiness for military action, a common theme in the conquest narratives of the Old Testament. The Danites were seeking a territory to settle, as their allotted inheritance was insufficient. This mirrors the earlier Israelite conquests under Joshua, where God commanded the Israelites to take possession of the Promised Land. The phrase also highlights the aggressive nature of the Danites' expansion, which was not sanctioned by God in the same way as the initial conquests.

for we have seen the land, and it is very good.
The spies' report echoes the positive reports given by Caleb and Joshua about the Promised Land in Numbers 13:30. The description of the land as "very good" suggests fertility and abundance, reminiscent of the land "flowing with milk and honey" promised to the Israelites. This phrase underscores the recurring biblical theme of God's provision and the goodness of His creation. However, unlike the earlier conquests, this venture lacks divine approval, highlighting a contrast between God's ordained plans and human ambition.

Why would you fail to act?
This rhetorical question serves as a motivational challenge to the Danites, urging them to seize the opportunity. It reflects a sense of urgency and impatience, possibly indicating a lack of faith in God's timing and provision. The question implies a rebuke for inaction, similar to the exhortations found in the book of Joshua, where the Israelites are encouraged to be strong and courageous. It also suggests a human tendency to rely on self-initiative rather than waiting on divine guidance.

Do not hesitate to go there and take possession of the land!
The command to "take possession" is reminiscent of God's instructions to the Israelites during the conquest of Canaan. However, in this context, it lacks the divine mandate that characterized earlier conquests. The phrase "do not hesitate" implies a sense of urgency and determination, urging immediate action. This reflects a broader biblical theme of seizing God-given opportunities, yet it also serves as a cautionary tale about acting outside of God's will. The Danites' actions foreshadow the later struggles and moral decline of Israel, as seen in the book of Judges, where "everyone did what was right in his own eyes" (Judges 21:25).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Danites
A tribe of Israel seeking a new territory to inhabit because they had not yet received their full inheritance.

2. Laish
The land observed by the Danite spies, described as good and prosperous, yet isolated and vulnerable.

3. Spies
Men sent by the tribe of Dan to scout the land of Laish and report back on its suitability for conquest.

4. Zorah and Eshtaol
The original territory of the Danites, from where they set out to find a new land.

5. Micah's House
A location earlier in the chapter where the Danites encounter a Levite priest, which plays a role in their journey.

Teaching Points

Diligence in Pursuing God's Promises
The Danites' initiative to seek out and claim their inheritance reminds us of the importance of actively pursuing the promises God has for us.

The Danger of Complacency
The exhortation, "Why are you sitting here doing nothing?" challenges us to examine areas of spiritual complacency in our lives.

Trust in God's Provision
The description of the land as "very good" encourages us to trust that God's provisions are abundant and sufficient for our needs.

Strategic Action in Faith
The Danites' strategic approach to taking possession of the land teaches us the value of planning and acting in faith.

Community and Leadership
The collective decision-making and leadership among the Danites highlight the importance of unity and guidance in pursuing God's direction.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the Danites' search for a new land reflect our own spiritual journey in seeking God's promises?

2. In what ways can we identify and overcome complacency in our spiritual lives, as urged by the Danites' call to action?

3. How does the account of the Danites relate to the broader biblical theme of trusting in God's provision?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Danites about the importance of community and leadership in pursuing God's plans?

5. How can we apply the principles of diligence and strategic action in our personal and communal faith journeys?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 18
The allocation of land to the tribes of Israel, highlighting the incomplete settlement of the Danites.

Numbers 13
The sending of spies into Canaan, paralleling the Danites' reconnaissance of Laish.

Proverbs 6:6-11
The call to action against laziness, similar to the Danites' urging to take possession of the land.

Hebrews 11:8-10
The faith of Abraham in seeking a promised land, reflecting the Danites' journey to claim their inheritance.