Judges 20:23

They went up and wept before the LORD until evening, inquiring of Him, "Should we again draw near for battle against our brothers the Benjamites?" And the LORD answered, "Go up against them."

Study Bible

They went up and wept before the LORD until evening
This phrase captures the deep sorrow and desperation of the Israelites. The act of going up signifies an approach to a higher place, both physically and spiritually, as they sought the presence of God. The Hebrew word for "wept" (בָּכָה, bakah) indicates a profound expression of grief and repentance. Historically, this reflects the Israelites' recognition of their need for divine guidance after suffering defeat. The mention of "until evening" suggests a prolonged period of lamentation, emphasizing their earnestness and the gravity of the situation.

inquiring of the LORD
This phrase highlights the Israelites' dependence on divine direction. The Hebrew root for "inquiring" (שָׁאַל, sha'al) implies seeking counsel or asking for guidance. In the context of ancient Israel, this often involved consulting the Urim and Thummim or a prophet. This act of inquiry underscores the importance of seeking God's will in times of crisis, a principle that remains central in conservative Christian thought.

'Should we again fight against our brothers, the Benjamites?'
The use of "brothers" here is significant, as it underscores the familial relationship between the tribes of Israel, including Benjamin. This internal conflict was not just a political or military issue but a deeply personal and spiritual one. The question reflects a moral and ethical dilemma, as they grapple with the idea of fighting against their own kin. Historically, this internal strife illustrates the consequences of sin and disobedience within the covenant community.

And the LORD answered
This phrase is pivotal, as it demonstrates God's responsiveness to His people's cries. The Hebrew word for "answered" (עָנָה, anah) conveys a sense of reply or response, indicating that God is not distant or indifferent. In the conservative Christian perspective, this affirms the belief in a personal God who hears and responds to the prayers of His people.

'Go up against them.'
God's directive to "go up" is both a command and an assurance. The repetition of "go up" from earlier in the verse reinforces the idea of ascending to a challenge with divine backing. This command, despite the familial ties, indicates the necessity of justice and the eradication of sin from among God's people. It serves as a reminder of the seriousness with which God views sin and the lengths to which His people must go to uphold righteousness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The collective tribes of Israel, excluding Benjamin, who are seeking guidance from God after suffering defeat in battle.

2. The Benjamites
The tribe of Benjamin, who are in conflict with the other tribes of Israel due to the grievous sin committed in Gibeah.

3. The LORD
The God of Israel, whom the Israelites seek for guidance and direction in their conflict with the Benjamites.

4. Gibeah
A city in the territory of Benjamin, where a heinous crime was committed, leading to the conflict between the tribes.

5. The Battle
The ongoing conflict between the Israelites and the Benjamites, which is a result of the moral and social breakdown in Israel.

Teaching Points

Seeking God's Guidance
The Israelites' approach to seek God's will before acting is a model for believers today. In times of uncertainty or conflict, we should prioritize seeking divine guidance through prayer and scripture.

Perseverance in Prayer
Despite initial setbacks, the Israelites persist in seeking God. This teaches us the importance of perseverance in prayer, trusting that God hears and will respond in His timing.

Community Accountability
The conflict arose from a lack of accountability and justice within the community. This serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing sin and maintaining righteousness within the body of believers.

God's Sovereignty in Difficult Situations
Even in challenging and seemingly hopeless situations, God remains sovereign. Believers can find comfort in knowing that God is in control and His purposes will prevail.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the Israelites' response to their initial defeat teach us about handling setbacks in our own lives?

2. How can we apply the principle of seeking God's guidance in our daily decision-making processes?

3. In what ways does the account of the conflict with the Benjamites highlight the importance of community accountability and justice?

4. How does the perseverance of the Israelites in seeking God's will encourage us in our prayer life, especially when answers are not immediate?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a difficult situation. How did recognizing God's sovereignty help you navigate through it, and how can this passage reinforce that understanding?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 30:8
Similar to David inquiring of the Lord before pursuing the Amalekites, the Israelites seek divine guidance before engaging in battle.

Psalm 34:17
This verse speaks to the Lord hearing the cries of the righteous, paralleling the Israelites' weeping and seeking God's direction.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Encourages trust in the Lord and seeking His guidance, which the Israelites exemplify by inquiring of God.

James 1:5
Highlights the importance of seeking wisdom from God, as the Israelites do in their time of distress.