Judges 21:23

The Benjamites did as instructed and carried away the number of women they needed from the dancers they caught. They went back to their own inheritance, rebuilt their cities, and settled in them.

Study Bible

So that is what the Benjamites did
This phrase marks the obedience of the Benjamites to the counsel given by the elders of Israel. The Hebrew root for "did" (עשׂה, 'asah) implies action and completion. It reflects the Benjamites' determination to restore their tribe after near annihilation. Historically, this action was a desperate measure to ensure the survival of the tribe, highlighting the gravity of the situation and the lengths to which they went to preserve their lineage.

While the young women were dancing
The act of dancing here is significant in ancient Israelite culture, often associated with celebration and religious festivals. The Hebrew word for "dancing" (מחול, machol) suggests a communal and joyful expression. This context underscores the innocence and vulnerability of the young women, contrasting with the Benjamites' desperate actions. It also reflects the cultural practices of the time, where such gatherings were common and often involved music and dance.

each man caught one and carried her off to be his wife
The phrase "caught one" (חטף, chataf) implies a sudden and forceful action. This reflects the urgency and desperation of the Benjamites' situation. The historical context reveals a time of moral and social chaos in Israel, where such actions were taken to ensure the continuation of a tribe. The phrase "carried her off" (נשא, nasa) indicates a taking or lifting, which in this context, is a forcible act. This reflects the patriarchal society of ancient Israel, where women often had little say in marital arrangements.

Then they returned to their inheritance
The concept of "inheritance" (נחלה, nachalah) is deeply rooted in the Israelite understanding of land and identity. Each tribe's inheritance was a divine allotment, a tangible sign of God's promise and faithfulness. The Benjamites' return to their inheritance signifies a restoration of their place within the covenant community of Israel. It highlights the importance of land as a source of identity and continuity for the tribes of Israel.

rebuilt their cities
Rebuilding (בנה, banah) signifies restoration and renewal. After the devastation of war, the act of rebuilding their cities represents hope and a new beginning for the Benjamites. It is a testament to their resilience and determination to restore what was lost. This action also reflects the broader biblical theme of restoration and redemption, where God often brings renewal out of destruction.

and settled in them
The act of settling (ישב, yashab) implies establishing a permanent presence. For the Benjamites, settling in their rebuilt cities marks the end of their wandering and the beginning of a new chapter. It signifies stability and the re-establishment of community life. This phrase encapsulates the fulfillment of God's promise to His people, providing them with a place to dwell and thrive. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in restoring His people, even after times of judgment and hardship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Benjamites
The tribe of Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, which faced near extinction due to a civil war with the other Israelite tribes.

2. Young Women
Refers to the daughters of Shiloh, who were taken by the Benjamites to become their wives during a festival.

3. Shiloh
A significant religious and cultural center in ancient Israel, where the tabernacle was located before the temple was built in Jerusalem.

4. Civil War
The conflict between the tribe of Benjamin and the other Israelite tribes, which led to the near annihilation of the Benjamites.

5. Inheritance
The land and cities that the Benjamites returned to and rebuilt after acquiring wives from Shiloh.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
The events in Judges 21:23 are a direct result of the moral and spiritual decline in Israel, reminding us of the destructive nature of sin and disobedience to God.

God's Mercy and Restoration
Despite the Benjamites' dire situation, God allowed for their restoration, illustrating His mercy and the possibility of redemption even after severe judgment.

The Importance of Godly Leadership
The absence of strong, godly leadership in Israel during this time led to chaos and moral decay, underscoring the need for leaders who follow God's ways.

The Sanctity of Marriage
The method by which the Benjamites acquired wives raises questions about the sanctity and consent in marriage, prompting us to value and uphold biblical principles in our relationships.

Community and Rebuilding
The Benjamites' return to their inheritance and rebuilding of their cities highlights the importance of community and restoration after conflict and loss.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of the Benjamites in Judges 21:23 reflect the broader theme of Israel's cycle of sin and redemption throughout the book of Judges?

2. In what ways does the absence of centralized leadership contribute to the events in Judges 21:23, and how can this inform our understanding of leadership in the church today?

3. How can the account of the Benjamites and the daughters of Shiloh challenge us to consider the importance of consent and mutual respect in relationships?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Benjamites' rebuilding of their cities about the process of restoration and healing in our own lives and communities?

5. How does the mercy shown to the Benjamites in their restoration encourage us to seek God's forgiveness and redemption in our personal lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 34
The account of Dinah and the Shechemites provides a parallel of forced marriage and the resulting conflict, highlighting the complexities of inter-tribal relationships in Israel's history.

Deuteronomy 12
Discusses the centralization of worship in Israel, which is relevant to understanding the significance of Shiloh as a religious center.

Ruth 4
The redemption of Naomi's family line through Boaz and Ruth contrasts with the Benjamites' method of securing wives, emphasizing lawful and loving relationships.