Joshua 9:5
And old shoes and clouted upon their feet, and old garments upon them; and all the bread of their provision was dry and mouldy. And old shoes and clouted upon their feet, and old garments upon them; and all the bread of their provision was dry and mouldy.
The old garments, patched sandals, and dry and mouldy bread were a disguise worn by the Gibeonites, together with torn wineskins bound up as if hastily repaired on the journey. They presented this worn appearance as proof that they had come from a distant country beyond Palestine after hearing of the wonders God had wrought for His people. In truth they were neighbors dwelling among Israel who knew they could not resist the Hebrews and used this stratagem to preserve their lives, a fact discovered three days afterward.
Israel had been specially warned against entering any league with the idolaters of Canaan, and though the leaders doubted, they were persuaded by these representations. Without asking counsel of the Lord, Joshua made peace with them and the princes swore to let them live. It was an unwise treaty that brought punishment because God was not consulted.
The Gibeonites were a numerous people who renounced their heathenism, joined Israel, and shared in the blessings of the covenant. Their case is an example of God's mercy toward idolaters who acknowledge His divine authority.