Judges 21:8

So they asked, "Which one of the tribes of Israel failed to come up before the LORD at Mizpah?" And, in fact, no one from Jabesh-gilead had come to the camp for the assembly.

Study Bible

So they asked
This phrase indicates a moment of inquiry and reflection among the Israelites. The Hebrew root for "asked" is שָׁאַל (sha'al), which often implies seeking guidance or understanding. In the context of Judges, this reflects the Israelites' need for divine direction during a time of moral and social chaos. It underscores the importance of seeking God's will in times of uncertainty.

Which one of the tribes of Israel
The phrase highlights the collective identity of the Israelites as God's chosen people, bound by covenant. Each tribe had a responsibility to uphold the covenantal relationship with God. Historically, the tribes were expected to unite for religious and national purposes, emphasizing the communal aspect of their faith and identity.

failed to come up to the LORD
This phrase suggests a failure in duty and obedience. The Hebrew word for "failed" can be linked to the concept of missing the mark, akin to sin. Coming "up to the LORD" implies a pilgrimage or gathering for worship, a critical aspect of Israelite religious life. This failure indicates a breach in communal worship and loyalty to God.

at Mizpah
Mizpah was a significant site for Israelite gatherings and covenant renewals. Archaeologically, Mizpah is identified with Tell en-Nasbeh, a site with evidence of ancient occupation. Historically, it served as a rallying point for the tribes, symbolizing unity and collective action under God's guidance.

And, behold
This expression serves as an attention-grabbing device, urging the reader to take notice of the situation. It often precedes significant revelations or events in Scripture, highlighting the gravity of what follows.

no one from Jabesh-gilead
Jabesh-gilead was a city east of the Jordan River, within the territory of Manasseh. Its absence from the assembly is notable, suggesting a disconnect or rebellion against the collective will of Israel. Historically, Jabesh-gilead's isolation may reflect geographical and political factors influencing its participation in national matters.

had come to the camp for the assembly
The "camp" and "assembly" refer to the gathering of Israelite tribes for a common purpose, often religious or military. The absence of Jabesh-gilead from this assembly indicates a failure to participate in the communal life of Israel, which was essential for maintaining unity and fulfilling God's commands. This highlights the importance of community and collective responsibility in the life of faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tribes of Israel
The collective tribes of Israel, who were bound by covenant to gather for significant events and decisions.

2. Mizpah
A significant gathering place for the Israelites, often used for assemblies and important decisions.

3. Jabesh-gilead
A city in the territory of Gilead, east of the Jordan River, which failed to send representatives to the assembly at Mizpah.

4. The Assembly
A gathering of the Israelites, called to address the crisis concerning the tribe of Benjamin after the civil war.

5. The Oath
The Israelites had sworn an oath at Mizpah not to give their daughters in marriage to the Benjamites, which led to a crisis when they sought to preserve the tribe of Benjamin.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Unity
The absence of Jabesh-gilead highlights the need for unity among God's people. When one part of the body is missing, the whole suffers.

Consequences of Rash Vows
The Israelites' oath at Mizpah had unintended consequences, teaching us to be cautious and prayerful before making commitments.

God's Sovereignty in Human Affairs
Despite human failures and conflicts, God's purposes prevail. The preservation of the tribe of Benjamin is a testament to His sovereignty.

Community Responsibility
The Israelites' response to Jabesh-gilead's absence underscores the importance of accountability and participation in the community of faith.

Grace and Restoration
The eventual restoration of the tribe of Benjamin points to God's grace and the possibility of redemption even after severe judgment.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the absence of Jabesh-gilead at the assembly, and how does this apply to our participation in the church community today?

2. How does the account of Jabesh-gilead and the tribe of Benjamin illustrate the consequences of making rash vows or decisions? Can you think of a New Testament teaching that relates to this?

3. In what ways does the unity or disunity of the tribes of Israel reflect the unity of the church as described in the New Testament?

4. How does the eventual restoration of the tribe of Benjamin demonstrate God's grace, and how can this encourage us in our personal lives?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a difficult decision. How can the lessons from Judges 21:8 guide you in seeking God's wisdom and avoiding rash commitments?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 20
Provides context for the civil war between the tribe of Benjamin and the other tribes of Israel, leading to the events in Judges 21.

1 Samuel 11
Describes how the people of Jabesh-gilead later receive help from Saul, highlighting their ongoing relationship with the rest of Israel.

Deuteronomy 23:21-23
Discusses the seriousness of making vows to the LORD, which is relevant to the oath made by the Israelites at Mizpah.