Joshua 9:3-16

3When the residents of Gibeon heard what Joshua did to Jericho and Ai,

4they did something clever. They collected some provisions and put worn-out sacks on their donkeys, along with worn-out wineskins that were ripped and patched.

5They had worn-out, patched sandals on their feet and dressed in worn-out clothes. All their bread was dry and hard.

6They came to Joshua at the camp in Gilgal and said to him and the men of Israel, “We have come from a distant land. Make a treaty with us.”

7The men of Israel said to the Hivites, “Perhaps you live near us. So how can we make a treaty with you?”

8But they said to Joshua, “We are willing to be your subjects.” So Joshua said to them, “Who are you and where do you come from?”

9They told him, “Your subjects have come from a very distant land because of the reputation of the Lord your God, for we have heard the news about all he did in Egypt

10and all he did to the two Amorite kings on the other side of the Jordan – King Sihon of Heshbon and King Og of Bashan in Ashtaroth.

11Our leaders and all who live in our land told us, ‘Take provisions for your journey and go meet them. Tell them, “We are willing to be your subjects. Make a treaty with us.”’

12This bread of ours was warm when we packed it in our homes the day we started out to meet you, but now it is dry and hard.

13These wineskins we filled were brand new, but look how they have ripped. Our clothes and sandals have worn out because it has been a very long journey.”

14The men examined some of their provisions, but they failed to ask the Lord’s advice.

15Joshua made a peace treaty with them and agreed to let them live. The leaders of the community sealed it with an oath.

16Three days after they made the treaty with them, the Israelites found out they were from the local area and lived nearby.