Judges 21:13

Then the whole congregation sent a message of peace to the Benjamites who were at the rock of Rimmon.

Study Bible

Then the whole congregation
This phrase indicates the collective action of the Israelites, emphasizing unity and communal decision-making. In the Hebrew context, "congregation" (עֵדָה, edah) often refers to the assembly of Israel, highlighting their identity as God's chosen people. Historically, this reflects the tribal confederation of Israel during the period of the Judges, where decisions were made collectively by the tribes.

sent a message of peace
The act of sending a "message of peace" (שָׁלוֹם, shalom) is significant in the Hebrew tradition, where "shalom" encompasses not just peace, but also wholeness, completeness, and welfare. This gesture indicates a desire for reconciliation and restoration of relationships after the civil strife that had occurred. It reflects the biblical principle of seeking peace and pursuing it, as seen throughout Scripture.

to the Benjamites
The Benjamites, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, had been nearly annihilated due to the conflict described in the preceding chapters. This outreach to the Benjamites signifies a turning point from judgment to mercy, illustrating the theme of redemption and the importance of preserving the unity of God's people. Historically, the tribe of Benjamin held a strategic position in Israel, and their survival was crucial for the nation's cohesion.

who were at the rock of Rimmon
The "rock of Rimmon" served as a refuge for the surviving Benjamites. In biblical times, rocks and caves were often used as places of safety and defense. This location underscores the dire situation of the Benjamites, who were in hiding and vulnerable. Theologically, it can be seen as a metaphor for God's protection and provision even in times of judgment and distress. The rock symbolizes a place of refuge, reminiscent of God being described as a rock and fortress in the Psalms.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Whole Congregation
Refers to the assembly of the Israelites, representing the collective tribes of Israel, excluding Benjamin at this point. They are acting together to resolve the conflict with the tribe of Benjamin.

2. The Benjamites
The tribe of Benjamin, which had been nearly annihilated due to a civil war with the other Israelite tribes. They were in a vulnerable position, hiding at the rock of Rimmon.

3. The Rock of Rimmon
A location where the surviving Benjamites had taken refuge. It symbolizes a place of safety and isolation during a time of conflict.

4. Message of Peace
The Israelites' attempt to reconcile with the Benjamites, indicating a desire to restore unity and peace among the tribes of Israel.

5. Civil War in Israel
The broader context of this verse is the aftermath of a brutal civil war between the tribe of Benjamin and the other Israelite tribes, sparked by a grievous crime committed in Gibeah.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Reconciliation
The Israelites' message of peace to the Benjamites underscores the biblical principle of seeking reconciliation, even after severe conflict. Christians are called to be peacemakers in their communities.

Unity Among Believers
The division among the tribes of Israel serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of disunity. Believers are encouraged to strive for unity within the body of Christ.

God's Mercy and Restoration
Despite the severity of the conflict, the opportunity for peace and restoration reflects God's mercy. Christians should be agents of God's restorative work in the world.

The Role of Collective Action
The whole congregation's involvement in sending the message of peace highlights the power of collective action in achieving reconciliation and healing.

Learning from Past Mistakes
The events leading to the near destruction of Benjamin serve as a reminder to learn from past mistakes and seek God's guidance in resolving conflicts.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the Israelites' approach to reconciliation with the Benjamites, and how can we apply this in our personal conflicts today?

2. How does the concept of being a peacemaker, as taught by Jesus, relate to the actions of the Israelites in Judges 21:13?

3. In what ways can the church today work towards unity and reconciliation among its members, drawing lessons from the tribes of Israel?

4. How does the account of the Benjamites at the rock of Rimmon illustrate God's mercy and the possibility of restoration after conflict?

5. Reflect on a time when you witnessed or participated in a collective effort to resolve a conflict. What biblical principles were evident in that situation, and how did they contribute to the outcome?

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, contributing to the conflict in Judges.

Matthew 5:9
Jesus' teaching on peacemakers can be connected to the Israelites' attempt to make peace with the Benjamites, highlighting the importance of reconciliation.

Romans 12:18
Paul's exhortation to live at peace with everyone aligns with the Israelites' efforts to restore peace with Benjamin.