Joshua 9:12

Translations

Modern

This bread of ours was warm when we packed it at home on the day we left to come to you. But look, it is now dry and moldy.

Traditional

This our bread we took hot for our provision out of our houses on the day we came forth to go unto you; but now, behold, it is dry, and it is mouldy:

Literal

This hot bread of ours we took as provision out from our houses on the day we departed to come to you. And, behold, it is dry and has become crumbs.

Latin

En panes quando egressi sumus de domibus nostris, ut veniremus ad vos, calidos sumpsimus; nunc sicci facti sunt, et vetustate nimia comminuti.

Original

Hebrew

English

This bread of ours was warm when we packed it at home on the day we left to come to you. But look, it is now dry and moldy.

Notes

Joshua 9:11–13

None of Israel’s leaders noticed that the Gibeonites did not answer Joshua’s questions. This was because they had become distracted by the false words of praise about God and the idea that a foreign people wanted a treaty.
If the Israelites spared their lives, the Gibeonites were willing to become Israel’s servants and swear to a treaty. This request should have raised suspicions among Israel’s leaders. Why would people from a distant land want a treaty of protection?

Joshua 9:1–27

Joshua failed to consult God again (9:14; compare 7:2–4). This time it was about an unexpected request. Other ancient Near Eastern stories only describe a leader’s successes. However, this author also noted the mistakes of Joshua and Israel’s elders. God is the true hero of the story, and the author wanted to emphasize God's achievements.

Theme notes and profiles

Joshua