Joshua 9:5 - and old and patched shoes on their feet, and wore old garments. All the bread of their food supply was dry and moldy.

Generated Verse: Joshua 9:5

What does "Joshua 9:5" mean?


This verse from Joshua 9:5 is describing the deceptive appearance that the Gibeonites presented to Joshua and the Israelites. Here's a breakdown of what it signifies:

"and old and patched shoes on their feet, and wore old garments": This indicates the Gibeonites intentionally dressed in worn-out and used clothing. They were trying to make it seem like they had traveled a long distance to reach the Israelites, suggesting they came from a far-off land. The patched shoes emphasize wear and tear from extensive travel.
"All the bread of their food supply was dry and moldy": The moldy bread further supported the Gibeonites' claim of a long journey. Fresh bread wouldn't last for an extended trip, so presenting stale and moldy bread added credibility to their story.

In essence, the Gibeonites were trying to convince the Israelites that they were not from the immediate area, but rather from a distant land. They hoped to trick the Israelites into forming a covenant of peace with them, as the Israelites were commanded to destroy all the inhabitants of Canaan (the land God was giving them). By appearing as weary travelers from afar, the Gibeonites hoped to bypass the command of destruction and save their own lives.

The verse illustrates the Gibeonites' cunning and their willingness to deceive to avoid annihilation. It sets the stage for the deception that follows, where the Israelites make a covenant with the Gibeonites without properly consulting God, leading to complications and a lasting commitment they later regretted.

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