Giblites

What was Giblites?

The Giblites were a people group mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in Joshua 13:5, as inhabitants of a territory on the northern coast of ancient Canaan. The term “Giblites” is derived from the Hebrew word גִּבְלִי (Gibli), meaning “mountainous” or “belonging to Gebal.” Gebal was a Phoenician coastal city, known in Greek as Byblos, located in what is now modern-day Lebanon.

The Giblites were thus likely associated with the city of Gebal, and their land marked the northern extent of the territory that remained to be conquered when Joshua divided the land among the tribes of Israel. While not much is said about the Giblites themselves, their mention situates them within the broader context of Canaanite peoples who occupied the Promised Land prior to Israel’s full possession.

Biblical References and Cross-References

  • Joshua 13:5 – “…and the land of the Gebalites, and all Lebanon, toward the sunrise, from Baal Gad below Mount Hermon to Lebo Hamath.”

  • Ezekiel 27:9 – “The elders of Gebal and her skilled workers were with you, all shipwrights of the sea…” (Here, Gebal is mentioned in relation to Tyre’s commerce.)

  • 1 Kings 5:18 – “The men of Gebal did the cutting and prepared the timber and stone for the building of the temple.” (This shows the Giblites’ craftsmanship and their involvement in construction.)

The Giblites were not just inhabitants of a territory but also known for their artisan skills, particularly in stonework and shipbuilding. This positions them not merely as a pagan nation, but as a skilled and industrious people who played a supporting role in God’s redemptive history through their indirect involvement in temple construction.

What Happened in the Bible?

In Joshua 13, God commands Joshua to divide the land among the tribes of Israel, even though some regions, like the territory of the Giblites, had not yet been conquered. The Giblite land was located along the Phoenician coast and was part of the unconquered northern areas promised to Israel. However, Israel would not immediately possess this area during Joshua’s lifetime.

Later biblical mentions of Gebal (Byblos) focus more on its involvement in trade and craftsmanship, particularly in maritime activities and temple building. Their land was eventually absorbed under Solomon’s rule through alliances with Hiram, king of Tyre (cf. 1 Kings 5), illustrating a shift from pagan resistance to cooperation in God‘s plan.

Meaning for Today’s Christians

The Giblites represent unconquered areas in the believer’s life—territories promised by God yet to be fully yielded or possessed. Just as Israel was given the land in promise, but not all at once in experience, so too believers receive new life in Christ but must continue to grow in sanctification, rooting out spiritual strongholds and areas of compromise.

The Giblites also serve as a reminder that God’s plans are not hindered by what seems unfinished. Their land was listed in the divine inheritance long before it was subdued, showing God‘s sovereign intention over every part of His promise. God sees the full picture even when we are still in process.

How Their Story Points to Jesus and the Gospel

The inclusion of the Giblites’ land in Israel’s inheritance, even before conquest, points to the already-but-not-yet nature of God’s kingdom—a theme fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Just as the Giblite land was destined to belong to God‘s people, so believers are already seated with Christ in the heavenly realms (Ephesians 2:6), though they still struggle with sin in the present world.

Moreover, the Giblites’ participation in the temple’s construction under Solomon (1 Kings 5:18) is a shadow of how Gentiles would one day contribute to the building of God‘s spiritual temple, the Church. Jesus Christ, the true temple (John 2:19-21), opens the door for all nations—including descendants of former enemies—to become part of God’s redemptive plan.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. The Inheritance of the Promised Land

The Giblites’ land is part of the inheritance God promised to Israel. This speaks to God‘s covenant faithfulness and points to the greater inheritance believers have in Christ.

2. God’s Sovereignty Over Nations

Even though the Giblites were not Israelite, their work was used in the building of the temple (1 Kings 5:18). This illustrates God’s power to use even the nations outside Israel to fulfill His purposes.

3. Sanctification and Spiritual Warfare

The unconquered Giblite territory serves as a metaphor for spiritual growth. Just as Israel had to gradually possess the land, believers must continue to pursue holiness and obedience.

4. Unity of the Church

The Giblites’ contribution to Solomon’s temple anticipates the unity of Jews and Gentiles in the body of Christ (Ephesians 2:14-22), where every part, regardless of background, has a place and function in God‘s house.

Reflection Questions

  1. What “unconquered territories” remain in your life that God has promised to help you overcome?

  2. How do you see God using even unbelievers or unexpected sources to accomplish His work around you?

  3. What does the Giblites’ role in the temple construction teach you about how God includes all kinds of people in His redemptive plan?

  4. How does the already-but-not-yet nature of Israel‘s inheritance mirror your walk with Christ today?

  5. In what ways are you helping to build God‘s spiritual temple—the Church—with the gifts He has given you?

The Giblites, though briefly mentioned, underscore God’s sovereignty, the completeness of His promises, and His ability to weave even outsiders into His redemptive plan. Their story encourages believers to trust in God’s timing, pursue their spiritual inheritance, and marvel at the inclusive reach of the gospel through Jesus Christ.

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