Judges 20:45

Then the Benjamites turned and fled toward the wilderness to the rock of Rimmon, and Israel cut down 5,000 men on the roads. And they overtook them at Gidom and struck down 2,000 more.

Study Bible

Then the Benjamites turned and fled
The phrase "turned and fled" indicates a decisive moment of retreat. In Hebrew, the word for "fled" is "נָסוּ" (nasu), which conveys a sense of urgency and desperation. This reflects the dire situation of the Benjamites, who, despite their initial resistance, found themselves overwhelmed by the Israelite forces. Historically, this retreat marks a significant turning point in the battle, illustrating the consequences of internal strife within the tribes of Israel.

toward the wilderness
The "wilderness" in biblical terms often represents a place of refuge but also of desolation and testing. The Hebrew word "מִדְבָּר" (midbar) can mean a desert or uninhabited land. This choice of direction underscores the Benjamites' desperation, seeking safety in isolation, away from the wrath of their fellow Israelites. It also symbolizes a return to a place of humility and potential renewal, reminiscent of Israel's own wilderness wanderings.

to the rock of Rimmon
The "rock of Rimmon" serves as a geographical landmark and a place of refuge. In Hebrew, "רִמּוֹן" (Rimmon) can mean "pomegranate," a symbol of fruitfulness and blessing, which contrasts with the current plight of the Benjamites. Archaeologically, such rocks or high places were often used as defensive positions. This location becomes a temporary sanctuary for the Benjamites, highlighting the theme of seeking refuge in times of distress.

And the Israelites cut down 5,000 men on the highways
The phrase "cut down" is translated from the Hebrew "הִכּוּ" (hikku), meaning to strike or smite. This indicates the severity and decisiveness of the Israelite pursuit. The "highways" refer to the main roads or routes, suggesting that the Benjamites were caught in a vulnerable position during their flight. This action reflects the relentless nature of the conflict and the determination of the Israelites to bring justice and resolution to the civil strife.

and they pursued them as far as Gidom
The pursuit "as far as Gidom" shows the extent of the Israelites' determination. The location "Gidom" is not well-documented archaeologically, but its mention signifies the thoroughness of the pursuit. This relentless chase underscores the seriousness with which the Israelites sought to address the sin within their community, emphasizing the importance of righteousness and accountability.

and struck down 2,000 more men
The phrase "struck down" again uses the Hebrew "הִכּוּ" (hikku), reinforcing the idea of decisive action. The additional "2,000 more men" highlights the heavy toll of the conflict and the tragic loss of life resulting from internal discord. This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and division within the people of God, calling for reflection and a return to unity and faithfulness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Benjamites
A tribe of Israel, known for their skilled warriors. In this context, they are fleeing after a devastating defeat.

2. Israel
Refers to the other tribes of Israel who have united against the tribe of Benjamin due to a grievous sin committed in Gibeah.

3. Wilderness
The area to which the Benjamites fled, symbolizing a place of desolation and refuge.

4. Rock of Rimmon
A location where the surviving Benjamites sought refuge, indicating a place of temporary safety.

5. Gidom
A location mentioned as the endpoint of the pursuit, highlighting the thoroughness of Israel's campaign against Benjamin.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
The conflict arose from a grievous sin in Gibeah, reminding us that sin can have far-reaching and devastating consequences.

Unity and Division
The tribes of Israel united against Benjamin, illustrating how sin can cause division even among God's people.

Seeking Refuge
The Benjamites fled to the rock of Rimmon, symbolizing the human tendency to seek refuge in times of distress. Spiritually, we are called to seek refuge in God.

Pursuit of Justice
The relentless pursuit of the Benjamites by Israel highlights the human desire for justice, but also the need for mercy and reconciliation.

God's Sovereignty
Despite the chaos and conflict, God's sovereign plan is at work, reminding us to trust in His ultimate justice and purpose.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the Benjamites' decision to flee to the wilderness, and how does this reflect our own responses to sin and conflict?

2. How does the unity of the Israelite tribes against Benjamin inform our understanding of dealing with sin within the community of believers?

3. In what ways does the rock of Rimmon serve as a metaphor for seeking refuge, and how can we apply this to our spiritual lives?

4. How does the pursuit of the Benjamites by Israel challenge us to consider the balance between justice and mercy in our own lives?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced division within a community. How can the account of Judges 20:45 guide you in seeking reconciliation and unity?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 49:27
This verse describes Benjamin as a ravenous wolf, which can be seen as a prophetic insight into the tribe's fierce nature and eventual conflict with the other tribes.

1 Samuel 14:47-48
Saul, a Benjamite, leads Israel in battle, showing the tribe's warrior legacy and the complexity of their relationship with the other tribes.

Romans 12:19
This verse speaks to the concept of vengeance belonging to the Lord, contrasting human justice with divine justice, relevant to the conflict in Judges 20.