Joshua 18:10
And Joshua cast lots for them in Shiloh before the LORD: and there Joshua divided the land unto the children of Israel according to their divisions.
Original Language Analysis
וַיַּשְׁלֵךְ֩
cast
H7993
וַיַּשְׁלֵךְ֩
cast
Strong's:
H7993
Word #:
1 of 15
to throw out, down or away (literally or figuratively)
גּוֹרָ֛ל
lots
H1486
גּוֹרָ֛ל
lots
Strong's:
H1486
Word #:
4 of 15
properly, a pebble, i.e., a lot (small stones being used for that purpose); figuratively, a portion or destiny (as if determined by lot)
לִפְנֵ֣י
before
H6440
לִפְנֵ֣י
before
Strong's:
H6440
Word #:
6 of 15
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
יְהוָ֑ה
the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֑ה
the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
7 of 15
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
שָׁ֨ם
H8033
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
11 of 15
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
לִבְנֵ֥י
unto the children
H1121
לִבְנֵ֥י
unto the children
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
13 of 15
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
Cross References
Acts 13:19And when he had destroyed seven nations in the land of Chanaan, he divided their land to them by lot.Colossians 1:12Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:Joshua 18:6Ye shall therefore describe the land into seven parts, and bring the description hither to me, that I may cast lots for you here before the LORD our God.
Historical Context
This lot-casting concluded the land distribution process begun years earlier. It resolved potential conflicts by divine authority, preventing civil war. The ceremony at Shiloh's tabernacle sanctified Israel's settlement pattern for generations.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you discern God's specific calling for you within the broader body of Christ?
- What role does community leadership play in helping individuals discover their divine inheritance?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Joshua cast lots for them in Shiloh before the LORD: and there Joshua divided the land unto the children of Israel according to their divisions—The sacred moment: divine allocation occurs. Before the LORD means at the tabernacle, likely involving the Urim and Thummim through Eleazar. Joshua serves as covenant mediator, but God determines each inheritance.
According to their divisions (machleqotam, מַחְלְקֹתָם) respects tribal distinctions. Unity doesn't erase identity—God blesses diversity within covenantal unity. Each tribe receives custom-fit inheritance matching their character and calling. This prefigures believers' varied spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:4-11).