Summary
Joshua and the Israelites had just defeated Jericho and Ai when the Gibeonites, fearing Israel’s power, approached disguised as distant allies. They presented themselves with broken clothing, old sacks, and moldy food, claiming to be servants from a far country. Joshua, trusting their words, made a covenant with them. After a few days the Gibeonites revealed their true identity and that they were actually neighbors in the territory Israel had conquered. The princes of Israel, bound by oath, chose not to destroy them and instead gave them the role of woodcutters and water‑drawers for the altar. Joshua’s decision shows Israel’s faithfulness to the Lord’s covenant and its willingness to exercise mercy, even when deception is involved.