Judges 21:18

But we cannot give them our daughters as wives." For the Israelites had sworn, "Cursed is he who gives a wife to a Benjamite."

Study Bible

But we cannot give them our daughters as wives
This phrase reflects the Israelites' dilemma after the civil war against the tribe of Benjamin. The Hebrew word for "cannot" (לֹא נוּכַל, lo nukhal) indicates an impossibility or prohibition, emphasizing the binding nature of their oath. The Israelites are caught between their desire to preserve the tribe of Benjamin and their commitment to the oath they made. This highlights the seriousness with which oaths were regarded in ancient Israelite society, reflecting a deep respect for spoken commitments as seen throughout the Old Testament (e.g., Numbers 30:2).

because we Israelites have sworn an oath
The act of swearing an oath (נִשְׁבַּעְנוּ, nishba'nu) was a solemn and sacred act in ancient Israel, often invoking God's name as a witness. This phrase underscores the collective responsibility and unity of the Israelite tribes in their decision-making. Historically, oaths were not taken lightly, as they were seen as binding contracts before God, with severe consequences for breaking them. This reflects the broader biblical theme of the power of words and the importance of integrity (Proverbs 18:21).

saying, ‘Cursed is he who gives a wife to Benjamin.’
The curse (אָרוּר, arur) pronounced here is a form of a self-imposed divine sanction, reflecting the gravity of the situation. In the ancient Near Eastern context, curses were believed to have real power, often invoking divine retribution. This particular curse highlights the Israelites' initial anger and desire to punish the tribe of Benjamin for their grievous sin, as detailed earlier in the book of Judges. However, it also sets the stage for the moral and ethical tension that follows, as the Israelites grapple with the near extinction of one of their own tribes. This tension between justice and mercy is a recurring theme in Scripture, pointing to the need for wisdom and discernment in leadership and community decisions (Micah 6:8).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The collective tribes of Israel who are dealing with the aftermath of a civil war against the tribe of Benjamin.

2. Benjamites
The tribe of Benjamin, which was nearly annihilated in a civil conflict with the other Israelite tribes.

3. Mizpah
The place where the Israelites gathered to discuss the situation and make decisions regarding the tribe of Benjamin.

4. Oath
A solemn promise made by the Israelites not to give their daughters in marriage to the Benjamites, which complicates the restoration of the tribe.

5. Civil War
The conflict between the tribe of Benjamin and the other Israelite tribes, leading to the near extinction of the Benjamites.

Teaching Points

The Weight of Oaths
Oaths are serious commitments before God and should not be made lightly. The Israelites' oath had significant consequences, demonstrating the importance of considering the implications before making such promises.

Reconciliation and Restoration
Despite the conflict, the Israelites sought ways to restore the tribe of Benjamin. This reflects God's desire for reconciliation and restoration among His people.

Consequences of Rash Decisions
The Israelites' hasty oath led to unintended difficulties. This teaches us to seek God's wisdom and guidance before making decisions, especially those with long-term effects.

Community Responsibility
The Israelites took collective responsibility for the survival of the Benjamites, highlighting the importance of community support and unity in addressing challenges.

God's Sovereignty in Human Affairs
Even in the midst of human error and conflict, God's sovereign plan is at work. The preservation of the tribe of Benjamin is a testament to His faithfulness and mercy.

Bible Study Questions

1. What were the consequences of the Israelites' oath, and how did it affect their relationship with the tribe of Benjamin?

2. How does the account of the Israelites and the Benjamites illustrate the importance of seeking God's guidance before making decisions?

3. In what ways can we apply the principle of reconciliation and restoration in our own relationships and communities?

4. How does the concept of community responsibility in this passage challenge us to support and care for one another in our faith communities?

5. Reflect on a time when you made a decision without fully considering its consequences. How can you apply the lessons from Judges 21:18 to future decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 20
Provides context for the civil war between the Israelites and the Benjamites, explaining the events leading up to the oath.

Numbers 30:2
Discusses the seriousness of making vows to the Lord, emphasizing the binding nature of oaths.

1 Samuel 14:24-28
Illustrates the consequences of rash oaths, as seen in Saul's command that nearly led to his son Jonathan's death.

Matthew 5:33-37
Jesus teaches about the importance of integrity in speech, advising against making oaths.

Romans 12:18
Encourages living at peace with everyone, which can be related to the Israelites' struggle to reconcile with the Benjamites.