They plead not the lawfulness or the prudence of the action, but only the obligation of an oath; of which, though it was procured by fraud, they perceived the people sufficiently sensible. We may not touch them, i.e. not hurt them, as that word is oft used, as Genesis 26:11 Psalms 105:15 Psalms 144:5; or not smite them, as is said, Joshua 9:18.
Related Commentaries of Joshua 9:19
Joshua 9:19
19 But all the princes said unto all the congregation, We have sworn unto them by the LORD God of Israel: now therefore we may not touch them.