17 Then the children of Israel journeyed and came to their cities on the third day. Now their cities were aGibeon, Chephirah, Beeroth, and Kirjath Jearim.
18 But the children of Israel did not1 attack them, abecause the rulers of the congregation had sworn to them by the Lord God of Israel. And all the congregation complained against the rulers.
19 Then all the rulers said to all the congregation, “We have sworn to them by the Lord God of Israel; now therefore, we may not touch them.
20 This we will do to them: We will let them live, lest awrath be upon us because of the oath which we swore to them.”
21 And the rulers said to them, “Let them live, but let them be awoodcutters and water carriers for all the congregation, as the rulers had bpromised them.”
22 Then Joshua called for them, and he spoke to them, saying, “Why have you deceived us, saying, a‘We are very far from you,’ when byou dwell near us?
23 Now therefore, you are acursed, and none of you shall be freed from being slaves—woodcutters and water carriers for the house of my God.”
New King James Version®, Copyright© 1982, Thomas Nelson. All rights reserved.
Book Notes:
Robertson's Book Notes (NT)
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