Keeping one's word

 Welcome to the Daily Bible Chapter. My name is James Leroy Wilson and I invite you to join me as I attempt to read the Bible with fresh eyes, as if I don't know anything about it, and without consulting experts on what it "really" means. Let's see where this takes us! 

Joshua 9

I'm reading Young's Literal Translation (YLT) and the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV).

The Gibeonites were saved from extermination by making a treaty with Joshua. They did so through lies and trickery, pretending to be from a distant land, presumably beyond the borders The LORD and Joshua envisioned for Israel.

When Joshua learned they actually lived nearby, he didn't nullify his treaty with them. Although the treaty was made under false pretenses, Joshua kept his end of the bargain.

I see two reasons why. The first is that the Gibeonites were willing to submit to Israel and The LORD. They were not putting up resistance. Perhaps this also meant they were willing to abandon their own gods and idols.

The second reason is reminiscent of Jacob deceiving Isaac to receive the blessing Isaac had intended for Esau. Isaac learned of the deception but didn't revoke the blessing. Likewise, Joshua felt compelled to keep the treaty with Gibeon even though he knew he had been lied to.

Keeping one's vow, promise, or word even after learning that the contract is itself fraudulent, is a sign of faith, the faith that empowers one to choose forgiveness over conflict.

James Leroy Wilson writes Daily Miracles, The Daily Bible Chapter, JL Cells, and The MVP Chase. Thanks for your subscriptions and support! You may contact James for your writing, editing, and research needs: jamesleroywilson-at-gmail.com.

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