Judges 20:48

And the men of Israel turned back against the other Benjamites and put to the sword all the cities, including the animals and everything else they found. And they burned down all the cities in their path.

Study Bible

And the men of Israel
This phrase refers to the collective tribes of Israel, excluding the tribe of Benjamin. Historically, the tribes of Israel were united in a confederation, often coming together for common causes. The Hebrew term for "men" here is "ish," which can denote not just males but also warriors or representatives of the tribes. This highlights the gravity of the situation, as it was not just a small group but the collective might of Israel acting in unison.

turned back against the Benjamites
The phrase "turned back" indicates a decisive and deliberate action. The Hebrew root "shuv" implies a return or a change in direction, suggesting that the Israelites, after initial battles, regrouped and launched a renewed offensive against the Benjamites. This reflects the seriousness of the conflict and the determination of the Israelites to address the sin within their own nation, as the Benjamites had refused to surrender the perpetrators of a grievous crime.

and struck them down with the sword
The use of the sword symbolizes judgment and warfare. In the ancient Near Eastern context, the sword was a primary weapon of battle, representing both physical and divine judgment. The Hebrew word "nakah" for "struck" conveys a sense of inflicting a decisive blow, indicating the thoroughness of the Israelites' actions against the Benjamites.

city by city
This phrase underscores the systematic and comprehensive nature of the campaign. The Israelites did not merely attack a single location but went through each city within the territory of Benjamin. This methodical approach reflects the seriousness with which they sought to purge the evil from among them, as each city was held accountable.

the people and animals and everything they found
The inclusion of "people and animals" indicates the totality of the destruction. In ancient warfare, such complete devastation was often a means of ensuring that no remnant of the enemy could rise again. The Hebrew word "kol" for "everything" emphasizes the completeness of the action, suggesting a form of herem, or devotion to destruction, which was sometimes commanded by God in the Old Testament as a means of purifying the land from sin.

And they set on fire all the cities they came across
Setting cities on fire was a common practice in ancient warfare to signify total conquest and destruction. Fire, in biblical symbolism, often represents purification and judgment. The act of burning the cities can be seen as a final act of judgment against the Benjamites, ensuring that the sin that had brought about this conflict was utterly removed. The Hebrew word "saraph" for "set on fire" conveys a sense of consuming completely, leaving nothing behind.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Men of Israel
The collective tribes of Israel, excluding Benjamin, who united to execute judgment against the tribe of Benjamin for their grievous sin.

2. Benjamites
The tribe of Benjamin, who were nearly annihilated due to their defense of the wickedness committed in Gibeah.

3. Gibeah
The city in Benjamin where a heinous crime was committed, leading to the conflict between Israel and Benjamin.

4. The Battle
A civil war within Israel, where the tribes sought to punish Benjamin for harboring and defending the perpetrators of a vile act.

5. Destruction of Cities
The complete destruction of Benjamite cities, people, and livestock as a form of divine judgment and purification.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
Sin, especially when unrepented, can lead to severe consequences. The destruction of Benjamin serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness with which God views sin.

Corporate Responsibility
The tribes of Israel acted together to address the sin within their community, highlighting the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining holiness.

The Cost of Disobedience
The near destruction of an entire tribe underscores the high cost of disobedience and the importance of aligning with God's will.

Restoration and Mercy
While judgment was executed, the subsequent chapters show efforts to restore the tribe of Benjamin, illustrating God's desire for restoration and mercy.

The Role of Justice
Justice is a key aspect of God's character, and His people are called to reflect this in their dealings, ensuring that justice is tempered with mercy and love.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the destruction of the Benjamite cities teach us about the consequences of harboring sin within a community?

2. How can we apply the principle of corporate responsibility in our church or community today?

3. In what ways does the account of Judges 20 challenge our understanding of justice and mercy?

4. How can we ensure that our pursuit of justice aligns with God's will and character, as seen in other scriptures like Romans 12:19?

5. Reflect on a time when you witnessed or experienced the cost of disobedience. How did it shape your understanding of God's commands?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 13
This passage outlines the command to destroy cities that turn to idolatry, reflecting the seriousness of purging evil from among God's people.

1 Samuel 15
The command to Saul to utterly destroy the Amalekites, showing the theme of complete obedience to God's commands in dealing with sin.

Romans 12:19
The principle of leaving vengeance to God, contrasting human justice with divine justice.