Judges 20:12

And the tribes of Israel sent men throughout the tribe of Benjamin, saying, "What is this wickedness that has occurred among you?

Study Bible

And the tribes of Israel
The phrase refers to the collective body of the twelve tribes, descendants of the sons of Jacob. In the context of Judges, this unity is significant as it demonstrates a rare moment of collective action among the tribes, which were often fragmented and at odds. Historically, the tribes were meant to function as a unified nation under God's covenant, yet the period of the Judges is marked by disunity and moral decline. This moment of unity underscores the gravity of the situation and the communal responsibility to uphold God's law.

sent men throughout the tribe of Benjamin
This action indicates a formal and deliberate approach to addressing the sin within the tribe of Benjamin. The sending of men can be seen as an attempt at diplomacy and reconciliation before resorting to conflict. In ancient Israelite culture, such an approach reflects the seriousness with which communal sin was regarded and the desire to resolve issues within the framework of God's law. The tribe of Benjamin, being one of the smaller tribes, is here being held accountable by the larger community, emphasizing the principle that no tribe or individual is above God's law.

saying, 'What is this wickedness
The term "wickedness" in Hebrew is "רָעָה" (ra'ah), which conveys a sense of evil or moral corruption. This inquiry is not merely about a breach of social norms but a violation of divine law. The use of the word highlights the severity of the crime committed and the moral outrage it has provoked among the other tribes. It reflects the biblical principle that sin is not just a personal failing but a communal concern that affects the entire covenant community.

that has occurred among you?'
This phrase points to the accountability of the tribe of Benjamin for the actions that have taken place within its borders. It suggests a communal responsibility for sin, where the entire tribe is implicated in the wrongdoing of its members. In the historical context of Israel, this reflects the interconnectedness of the tribes and the belief that sin within one part of the community can bring judgment upon the whole. It serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and righteousness within the community of God's people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tribes of Israel
The collective group of the twelve tribes descended from the sons of Jacob, who are addressing the tribe of Benjamin regarding a grievous sin.

2. Tribe of Benjamin
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, which is being confronted by the other tribes for harboring wickedness within its borders.

3. Men Sent
Representatives or messengers from the tribes of Israel tasked with delivering a message of inquiry and confrontation to the tribe of Benjamin.

4. Wickedness
Refers to the grievous sin committed by certain men of Gibeah, a city within the territory of Benjamin, which led to a national crisis.

5. Gibeah
A city in the territory of Benjamin where the atrocity took place, leading to the confrontation by the other tribes.

Teaching Points

Confronting Sin in the Community
The tribes of Israel demonstrate the importance of addressing sin within the community. As believers, we are called to lovingly confront sin to maintain the purity and holiness of the body of Christ.

Corporate Responsibility
The passage highlights the collective responsibility of God's people to uphold righteousness. Each member of the community has a role in ensuring that sin is not tolerated.

Seeking Justice
The inquiry into the wickedness in Benjamin underscores the biblical principle of seeking justice. Believers are called to be advocates for justice and righteousness in their communities.

Unity in Righteousness
The united action of the tribes of Israel serves as a reminder of the power of unity in pursuing God's standards. The church today should strive for unity in upholding biblical truths.

Repentance and Restoration
While the passage focuses on confrontation, it also opens the door for repentance and restoration. The goal of addressing sin is always to bring about repentance and reconciliation.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the tribes of Israel's approach to confronting the tribe of Benjamin about sin within their community?

2. How does the concept of corporate responsibility in addressing sin apply to the modern church?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our pursuit of justice aligns with biblical principles?

4. How can unity among believers strengthen our efforts to uphold righteousness in our communities?

5. What steps can we take to encourage repentance and restoration when addressing sin within the church?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 34
The account of Dinah and Shechem, where a similar situation of moral outrage leads to a call for justice.

Deuteronomy 13
Instructions on how to deal with wickedness within the community, emphasizing the need for purity and justice among God's people.

1 Corinthians 5
Paul's instructions to the Corinthian church on dealing with sin within the community, highlighting the importance of addressing sin to maintain holiness.