Judges 20:32

"We are defeating them as before," said the Benjamites. But the Israelites said, "Let us retreat and draw them away from the city onto the roads."

Study Bible

We are defeating them as before
This phrase reflects the initial confidence of the Benjamites, who believed they were winning against the Israelites just as they had in previous encounters. The Hebrew root for "defeating" is "נָגַף" (nagaph), which means to strike or smite. Historically, this confidence was based on their earlier victories, which had emboldened them. However, this overconfidence would soon lead to their downfall, illustrating the biblical principle that pride often precedes a fall (Proverbs 16:18).

the Benjamites said
The Benjamites, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, were speaking here. Their statement reveals their mindset and the tribal dynamics at play. The tribe of Benjamin was known for its fierce warriors, as seen in Judges 20:16, where it mentions 700 left-handed slingers who could hit a target without missing. This historical context highlights the Benjamites' reliance on their military prowess rather than seeking divine guidance.

But the Israelites said
In contrast, the Israelites, representing the other tribes, were engaged in a strategic battle plan. The Hebrew word for "said" is "אָמַר" (amar), which can also mean to think or intend. This suggests that the Israelites were not just speaking but also planning and strategizing. Their approach was more thoughtful and reliant on divine guidance, as they had sought the Lord's counsel before the battle (Judges 20:18, 23, 28).

Let us retreat and draw them away from the city
This phrase indicates a tactical maneuver by the Israelites. The strategy was to feign retreat, a common military tactic to lure the enemy into a vulnerable position. The Hebrew root for "retreat" is "נָסַג" (nasag), meaning to withdraw or pull back. This tactic required discipline and trust in the overall plan, reflecting the Israelites' reliance on God's guidance and wisdom in warfare, as opposed to the Benjamites' reliance on their own strength.

onto the roads
The roads were crucial in ancient warfare for movement and supply lines. By drawing the Benjamites onto the roads, the Israelites aimed to control the battlefield and cut off the Benjamites' escape or reinforcement routes. This strategic move underscores the importance of preparation and foresight, aligning with biblical teachings on the value of wisdom and planning (Proverbs 21:31). The roads symbolize the path of life choices, where one must choose between self-reliance and reliance on God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Benjamites
A tribe of Israel, known for their skilled warriors. In this context, they are engaged in a civil conflict with the other Israelite tribes due to the grievous sin committed in Gibeah.

2. The Israelites
The collective tribes of Israel, excluding Benjamin, who have gathered to execute judgment on the Benjamites for their refusal to surrender the perpetrators of a heinous crime.

3. Gibeah
A city in the territory of Benjamin, where the initial crime that sparked the conflict took place. It serves as the focal point of the battle.

4. The Battle Strategy
The Israelites employ a strategic retreat to lure the Benjamites away from the safety of their city, indicating a tactical approach to warfare.

5. The Civil War
This event is part of a larger account of civil war within Israel, highlighting the internal strife and moral decay present during the time of the Judges.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Overconfidence
The Benjamites' assumption of victory based on past success serves as a caution against pride and overconfidence in our own abilities.

Strategic Wisdom in Conflict
The Israelites' use of strategy rather than brute force highlights the importance of wisdom and discernment in overcoming challenges.

The Consequences of Sin
The entire conflict stems from unaddressed sin, reminding us of the far-reaching consequences of moral failure and the importance of accountability.

Unity and Division Among Believers
The civil war among the tribes of Israel serves as a warning about the destructive potential of division within the body of believers.

God's Sovereignty in Human Affairs
Despite the chaos and conflict, God's overarching plan and sovereignty are evident, encouraging trust in His ultimate control over our circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the Benjamites' confidence in their military prowess reflect attitudes we might encounter in our own lives, and how can we guard against similar pitfalls?

2. In what ways can the Israelites' strategic approach to battle inform our own strategies in spiritual warfare or personal challenges?

3. Reflect on a time when unaddressed sin led to larger consequences in your life or community. How can this passage encourage proactive accountability?

4. How does the division among the tribes of Israel mirror potential divisions within the church today, and what steps can we take to promote unity?

5. Considering God's sovereignty in the midst of this conflict, how can we find peace and assurance in His control over our personal and communal struggles?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 8
The Israelites' strategy in Judges 20:32 is reminiscent of the battle of Ai, where a similar tactic of feigned retreat was used to achieve victory.

Proverbs 16:18
The Benjamites' overconfidence in their initial success parallels the warning against pride leading to downfall.

Romans 12:19
The conflict underscores the importance of leaving vengeance to God, contrasting human attempts at justice with divine justice.