Therefore, our leaders and all the inhabitants of our land sent us to find you with these instructions: ‘Get food ready for your long trip, and go to the Israelites and say to them, “Make a treaty with us. We’re willing to be your servants.” ’
That day, he made them woodcutters and water carriers to serve the community of Israel for the altar of Yahweh at his divinely chosen place. And that is what they do to this day.
Therefore, we will spare your lives, but you will live under a curse, and you will be condemned to perpetual servitude. You will serve the house of my God by cutting wood and carrying water for us.”
The Gibeonites sent out a call for help to Joshua at the camp in Gilgal: “Don’t abandon us, for we are your servants! Come quickly and save us! Help us, for the Amorite kings of the hill country have surrounded us!”