The Gibeonite Deception

Chapter 9 provides a detailed account of the unusual circumstances that resulted in the people of Gibeon not being killed but becoming subject to the Israelites. Like Rahab, the Gibeonites had heard of God's deeds (verses 9-10) and received a measure of mercy (verse 26). However, unlike Rahab (who deceived Israel's enemies), the Gibeonites deceived Israel. While they were delivered from destruction, they became servants of the people of God (verse 23).