The Gibeonites
Overview
- Testament: Old
- Role: Hivite people who made a covenant with Israel
- Family: Canaanite / Hivite
- Key Books: Joshua, 2 Samuel
Biography
The Gibeonites deceived Israel by pretending to be travelers from a far country. Israel made a covenant with them without asking counsel from the LORD. When the deception was discovered, Joshua spared them because of the oath, but assigned them to serve as woodcutters and water carriers for the congregation and altar.
Key Events
- Gibeonite Deception - Treaty made through deception
- Battle of Gibeon - Israel defended Gibeon against Amorite kings
Relationships
- Joshua (Son of Nun) - Kept the oath and assigned their service
- Saul - Later violated the covenant, bringing guilt on Israel
- David - Dealt with the covenant violation in 2 Samuel 21
Important Verses
- Joshua 9:14-15 - Israel made peace without seeking the LORD.
- Joshua 9:27 - Joshua made them hewers of wood and drawers of water.
Cross-References
Notes
The Gibeonites show both the danger of acting without prayer and the seriousness of covenant faithfulness.