there were 700 select left-handers
Left-handedness is mentioned in the Bible as a notable trait, often associated with the tribe of Benjamin (Judges 3:15, 1 Chronicles 12:2). Being left-handed could provide a strategic advantage in battle, as opponents would be less accustomed to defending against left-handed attacks. The specificity of "700 select" indicates a group chosen for their exceptional skill, suggesting a level of military organization and specialization.

each of whom could sling a stone at a hair
The sling was a common weapon in ancient warfare, requiring great skill and precision. The ability to sling a stone "at a hair" signifies extraordinary accuracy. This skill would have been developed through extensive practice, reflecting the importance of slingers in ancient military tactics. The sling's effectiveness is also seen in the story of David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17), where David's skill with a sling plays a crucial role in his victory.

without missing
The phrase "without missing" underscores the remarkable proficiency of these soldiers. In Hebrew, the word for "sin" is often translated as "missing the mark," which can provide a metaphorical connection to spiritual accuracy and righteousness. The precision of these slingers can be seen as a parallel to the need for spiritual precision and faithfulness in following God's commands.

• The broader context is the mustering of Israel’s forces against Benjamin after the grievous sin in Gibeah (Judges 20:14–15).

• Scripture underscores that this elite group came from “all” the troops, emphasizing God’s concern with both quantity and quality (cf. Judges 7:2–7 where Gideon’s army is similarly sifted).

• The narrative reminds us that amid national crisis the Lord can set apart exceptional instruments, echoing how He designated specific craftsmen for the tabernacle (Exodus 31:1–5).

• “Left-handers” signals a distinctive tactical advantage. In Judges 3:15, the Lord previously raised up the left-handed Ehud from the same tribe of Benjamin, indicating a recurring pattern of God using what seems unusual to accomplish His purposes (1 Corinthians 1:27).

• “700” conveys completeness and notable strength; the text treats this number as literal, underscoring that true historical details matter to God’s record (cf. Numbers 1:46, precise census totals).

• “Select” speaks of rigorous selection—only the best of the best. Just as David later gathers “mighty men” (2 Samuel 23:8–39), Israel recognizes exemplary skill for strategic tasks.

• The sling was a common but potent weapon (1 Samuel 17:40). Hitting “a hair” illustrates pinpoint precision, celebrating human excellence guided by divine gifting (Exodus 35:31).

• This picture anticipates later biblical moments where small projectiles accomplish great ends, such as David’s victory over Goliath (1 Samuel 17:49). God often delivers through what the world deems insignificant (Zechariah 4:10).

• Skillful preparation does not negate faith; instead, it complements it. Proverbs 22:29 honors those “skilled in their work,” showing diligence glorifies the Lord.

• “Without missing” stresses unfailing accuracy, a trait ascribed to God Himself: “For the LORD’s word is upright, and all His work is trustworthy” (Psalm 33:4).

• The phrase points to reliability in battle, reminding believers that consistency matters in service (1 Corinthians 15:58).

• When human precision mirrors divine faithfulness, it illustrates how God equips people to reflect His character of perfection (Matthew 5:48 applied in vocation).

Judges 20:16 showcases a literal historical detail that also carries spiritual weight. From the mass of Israel’s warriors, God highlights 700 specially trained left-handed Benjamites whose flawless aim exemplifies excellence under His sovereign hand. Their existence affirms that the Lord values skill, intentional preparation, and faithful dependability. As with Ehud and David, God uses particular abilities—sometimes unexpected—to advance His righteous purposes, calling His people to combine diligent craftsmanship with unwavering trust in Him.

Left handed.--The same phrase as that employed in Judges 3:15.

Could sling stones at an hair breadth, and not miss.--The expression is perfectly simple, and merely implies extreme accuracy of aim. Bochart's attempt (Hieroz. Ii. 162) to explain it by a passage in Quintus Smyrn?us, which says that archers used to contend which should be able to shoot off the horsehair crest of a helmet, is a mere specimen of learning fantastically misapplied. Skill with the sling was not confined to the Benjamites, as we see from the case of David (1Samuel 17:49). The sling is the natural weapon of a people which is poor and imperfectly armed. Cyrus valued his force of 400 slingers (Xen. Anab. iii. 3-6). The inhabitants of the Balearic Isles were as skilful as the Benjamites, and children were trained to sling their breakfasts down from the top of high poles. They once prevented the Carthaginian fleet from coming to anchor by showers of stones (liv. xxviii. 37, solo eo telo utebantur). Practice made them so expert that the stones they slung came with as much force as though hurled by a catapult, and pierced shields and helmets (Diod. Sic. Bibl. v. 18). Exactly similar tales are told of the trained skill of our English archers. The advantage of slinging with the left hand was very obvious, for it enabled the slinger to strike his enemy on the right, i.e., the undefended side.