This Hivite city gained fame when its inhabitants cleverly deceived Joshua into making a covenant with them, becoming Israel's servants rather than suffering destruction. The great pool of Gibeon witnessed the contest between Joab's men and Abner's forces. Solomon received his dream of wisdom here at the high place, before the temple was built. Later prophets condemned illegitimate worship at Gibeon, even as its historical significance remained undeniable. Archaeological identification with modern Tell el-Jib has uncovered extensive water systems matching biblical descriptions.