◄ Judges 21 ►
Book Sum People Lessons Que
Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Wives for the Benjamites 1Now the men of Israel had sworn an oath at Mizpah, saying, “Not one of us will give his daughter in marriage to a Benjamite.” 2So the people came to Bethel and sat there before God until evening, lifting up their voices and weeping bitterly. 3“Why, O LORD God of Israel,” they cried out, “has this happened in Israel? Today in Israel one tribe is missing!” 4The next day the people got up early, built an altar there, and presented burnt offerings and peace offerings. 5The Israelites asked, “Who among all the tribes of Israel did not come to the assembly before the LORD?” For they had taken a solemn oath that anyone who failed to come up before the LORD at Mizpah would surely be put to death. 6And the Israelites grieved for their brothers, the Benjamites, and said, “Today a tribe is cut off from Israel. 7What should we do about wives for the survivors, since we have sworn by the LORD not to give them our daughters in marriage?” 8So 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. 9For when the people were counted, none of the residents of Jabesh-gilead were there. 10So the congregation sent 12,000 of their most valiant men and commanded them: “Go and put to the sword those living in Jabesh-gilead, including women and children. 11This is what you are to do: Devote to destructiona every male, as well as every female who has had relations with a man.” 12So they found among the inhabitants of Jabesh-gilead four hundred young women who had not had relations with a man, and they brought them to the camp at Shiloh in the land of Canaan. 13Then the whole congregation sent a message of peace to the Benjamites who were at the rock of Rimmon. 14And at that time the Benjamites returned and were given the women who were spared from Jabesh-gilead. But there were not enough women for all of them. 15The people grieved for Benjamin, because the LORD had made a void in the tribes of Israel. 16Then the elders of the congregation said, “What should we do about wives for those who remain, since the women of Benjamin have been destroyed?” 17They added, “There must be heirs for the survivors of Benjamin, so that a tribe of Israel will not be wiped out. 18But we cannot give them our daughters as wives.” For the Israelites had sworn, “Cursed is he who gives a wife to a Benjamite.” 19“But look,” they said, “there is a yearly feast to the LORD in Shiloh, which is north of Bethel east of the road that goes up from Bethel to Shechem, and south of Lebonah.” 20So they commanded the Benjamites: “Go, hide in the vineyards 21and watch. When you see the daughters of Shiloh come out to perform their dances, each of you is to come out of the vineyards, catch for himself a wife from the daughters of Shiloh, and go to the land of Benjamin. 22When their fathers or brothers come to us to complain, we will tell them, ‘Do us a favor by helping them, since we did not get wives for each of them in the war. Since you did not actually give them your daughters, you have no guilt.’” 23The 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. 24And at that time, each of the Israelites returned from there to his own tribe and clan, each to his own inheritance. 25In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes. Footnotes: 11 a Forms of the Hebrew cherem refer to the giving over of things or persons to the LORD, either by destroying them or by giving them as an offering. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Judges 21 Summary Wives for the Benjamites Verses 1–4 – The Oath and the Mourning at Mizpah The warriors of Israel, still gathered at Mizpah after the civil war, bind themselves with a solemn oath: “None of us shall give his daughter to Benjamin as a wife.” Realizing that a tribe of Israel now teeters on extinction, they weep bitterly before God and offer burnt offerings and peace offerings at the altar. Verses 5–9 – Finding the Absent Ones A second question rises: “Who failed to come up to the LORD at Mizpah?” A careful census shows that the city of Jabesh-gilead sent no representatives. The assembly decides that their absence deserves judgment, because the entire nation had sworn to gather before the LORD for this crisis. Verses 10–14 – The Raid on Jabesh-gilead Twelve thousand soldiers storm Jabesh-gilead, putting every man and every woman who has known a man to the sword. From the carnage they spare four hundred young virgins and bring them to the camp at Shiloh. These maidens are offered to the surviving Benjaminites lodged at Rimmon Rock, yet four hundred wives are still not enough. Verses 15–18 – A Torn Heart for Benjamin The people feel deep sorrow because “the LORD had made a breach in the tribes of Israel.” Elders discuss the dilemma: they must keep their vow, yet they must give Benjamin a future. No tribal inheritance in Israel may be lost. Verses 19–22 – The Shiloh Festival Plan A new idea surfaces. During the yearly feast of the LORD at Shiloh, young women traditionally dance in the vineyards. Israel tells the Benjaminites to hide, rush out, and “snatch a wife” when the daughters of Shiloh come out to dance. If fathers complain, the elders will plead: “Show them favor, for we could not give them wives because of the oath.” Verses 23–25 – Restoration and Lingering Warning The plan works: each Benjaminite carries away a bride, returns to his territory, rebuilds cities, and dwells there. Israel disperses to its tribal lands. The book closes with an ominous refrain: “In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” Judges 21, the concluding chapter of the Book of Judges, presents a complex narrative of moral ambiguity and restoration. After a violent internal conflict, the Israelites find themselves dealing with the near extinction of the Tribe of Benjamin. As they navigate the aftermath, they must grapple with past vows and find a way to ensure the survival of Benjamin, thereby preserving the unity of the Twelve Tribes of Israel. Historical Setting • Judges 19–21 forms one continuous story, likely set early in the period of the judges (12th–11th century BC). • The tribal assembly at Mizpah mirrors earlier national gatherings (Joshua 24; 1 Samuel 7). • The civil war left only 600 Benjaminite men alive (Judges 20:47). Chapter 21 records how Israel tries to remedy its own ruthless victory. Covenant Oaths and Rash Promises • Israel’s vow in verse 1 echoes Numbers 30:2 and Deuteronomy 23:21—vows to God are binding. • Yet Psalm 15:4 praises the one “who keeps his oath even when it hurts.” The people keep their exact words but bend the spirit of the vow, revealing the danger of impulsive promises (cf. Jephthah in Judges 11). • Jesus later warns against careless oaths, urging simple honesty instead (Matthew 5:33-37). The Civil War’s Aftermath: Rebuilding Benjamin 1. 400 virgins from Jabesh-gilead 2. 200 dancers from Shiloh 3. Total: 600 wives for 600 surviving men—Benjamin preserved. The narrative highlights God’s mercy amid human failure; tribal identity endures so that Saul (1 Samuel 9), Mordecai (Esther 2:5), and Paul (Romans 11:1) can later emerge from Benjamin. Jabesh-gilead: An Unlikely Connection • Jabesh-gilead sits east of the Jordan near Wadi Yabis. Its sympathy for Benjamin may trace back to familial ties (1 Samuel 11 hints at kinship). • Saul, a Benjaminite, will rescue Jabesh-gilead generations later, and its men will honor him in death (1 Samuel 31:11-13), suggesting lingering gratitude and kinship bonds first forged here. Annual Feast at Shiloh: Setting and Significance • Shiloh hosted the tabernacle from Joshua through 1 Samuel 4. • The unnamed feast (v. 19) fits traits of the Feast of Tabernacles—grape harvest, dances, and temporary shelters (Leviticus 23:33-43). • Ironically, a joyful celebration of God’s provision becomes a stage for bride-kidnapping, underlining the cultural confusion of the era. Archaeological Glimpses: Mizpah, Jabesh-gilead, and Shiloh • Mizpah is commonly identified with Tell en-Nasbeh, eight miles north of Jerusalem. Fortified walls and grain silos match a large late-Iron I occupation. • Shiloh’s ruins at Khirbet Seilun reveal a massive, level platform—likely the tabernacle’s resting place—plus storage rooms packed with collared-rim jars from the Judges period. • Possible sites for Jabesh-gilead, Tell el-Maqbereh or Tell Abu Khren, display 12th-century pottery and defensive lines consistent with a fortified Gileadite city. Echoes Through Scripture • Repeated refrain (Judges 17:6; 18:1; 19:1; 21:25) sets up the longing for a righteous king, fulfilled in David and ultimately in Christ (Luke 1:32-33). • Hosea 10:9 recalls “the days of Gibeah,” warning Israel not to repeat such moral chaos. • Romans 12:17-21 counters the vengeance motif seen in Judges, urging believers to “overcome evil with good.” Timeless Lessons for Today • Zeal without wisdom hurts the innocent. Rash vows and extreme solutions reveal hearts distant from God’s steady guidance. • Community responsibility matters. Israel rightly feels accountable for Benjamin; believers today share a duty to restore the fallen (Galatians 6:1-2). • God preserves His purposes even through broken people. The book ends in failure, yet the lineage of Benjamin testifies that grace outlasts human folly. Connections to Additional Scriptures Ecclesiastes 5:2 Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few. Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. Teaching Points The Consequences of Rash Vows The Israelites had sworn not to give their daughters to the Benjamites as wives (Judges 21:1). This vow, made in the heat of anger, led to unforeseen complications and moral dilemmas. The Role of Collective Responsibility The Israelites recognized their collective responsibility for the near extinction of the tribe of Benjamin and sought to rectify the situation (Judges 21:2-3). Human Solutions to Spiritual Problems The Israelites devised a plan to provide wives for the Benjamites, which involved further violence and deception (Judges 21:10-23). This highlights the flawed nature of human solutions when God's guidance is not sought. The Cycle of Sin and Redemption Judges 21 concludes with the reminder that In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes (Judges 21:25). This verse encapsulates the recurring theme of the book of Judges: the cycle of sin, judgment, repentance, and deliverance. Practical Applications Seek God’s Guidance Before making vows or decisions, seek God's wisdom and guidance to avoid rash actions that lead to unintended consequences. Consider the Impact of Your Actions Reflect on how your decisions affect not only yourself but also your community and future generations. Pursue Reconciliation When conflicts arise, strive for reconciliation and restoration, seeking solutions that align with God's will and righteousness. Recognize Human Limitations Acknowledge that human solutions are often flawed and that true resolution comes from aligning with God's purposes. People 1. The Israelites The collective group of the other eleven tribes of Israel who had gathered at Mizpah and made an oath concerning the tribe of Benjamin. They are involved in finding a solution to the near extinction of the Benjamites. 2. The Tribe of Benjamin One of the twelve tribes of Israel, which faced near extinction after the civil war with the other tribes. The chapter discusses the measures taken to ensure their survival and continuation. 3. The Elders of the Congregation These are the leaders or representatives of the Israelite tribes who deliberated on how to provide wives for the surviving Benjamites. They play a crucial role in decision-making. 4. The Inhabitants of Jabesh-gilead Although not named individually, the people of Jabesh-gilead are mentioned as those who did not come to the assembly at Mizpah, leading to the Israelites' decision to attack them and provide wives for the Benjamites from their women. 5. The Daughters of Shiloh The young women who participated in the annual festival at Shiloh. The Israelites instructed the Benjamites to take wives from among these women during the festival. The chapter does not provide specific individual names but focuses on these groups and their roles in resolving the crisis faced by the tribe of Benjamin. The narrative emphasizes the collective actions and decisions made by the Israelites to address the situation. Places 1. Mizpah Mizpah is where the Israelites gathered to seek the Lord's guidance regarding the situation with the tribe of Benjamin. The Hebrew root for Mizpah (מִצְפָּה) means "watchtower" or "lookout," indicating a place of gathering and vigilance. 2. Bethel Bethel is where the Israelites went to weep and offer sacrifices to the Lord. The name Bethel (בֵּית־אֵל) means "House of God" in Hebrew, signifying its importance as a place of worship and divine encounter. 3. Gibeah Gibeah is the city associated with the grievous incident that led to the conflict with the tribe of Benjamin. The Hebrew root for Gibeah (גִּבְעָה) means "hill," reflecting its geographical setting. 4. Jabesh Gilead Jabesh Gilead is the city that did not come to the assembly at Mizpah, leading to its inhabitants being attacked by the Israelites. The name Jabesh (יַבֵּשׁ) means "dry" in Hebrew, and Gilead (גִּלְעָד) refers to a region east of the Jordan River. 5. Shiloh Shiloh is where the Israelites instructed the Benjaminites to find wives during a festival. The name Shiloh (שִׁלוֹ) is often associated with peace or tranquility and was an important religious center in Israel. Events 1. Oath at Mizpah The men of Israel had sworn an oath at Mizpah, saying, "None of us shall give his daughter to Benjamin in marriage" (Judges 21:1). The Hebrew root for "oath" is שָׁבוּעָה (shavu'ah), indicating a solemn promise or vow. 2. Lamentation for Benjamin The Israelites went to Bethel and sat before God until evening, weeping bitterly and lamenting the loss of one tribe from Israel (Judges 21:2-3). The Hebrew word for "lament" is נָחָם (nacham), which conveys deep sorrow and regret. 3. Offering Sacrifices The Israelites built an altar and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings to seek the LORD's guidance (Judges 21:4). The Hebrew term for "burnt offering" is עֹלָה ('olah), signifying a sacrifice that is wholly consumed by fire. 4. Inquiry of the LORD The Israelites asked the LORD why one tribe was missing from Israel, seeking divine direction (Judges 21:5-6). The Hebrew root for "inquire" is שָׁאַל (sha'al), meaning to ask or seek information. 5. Provision for Wives The assembly decided to provide wives for the remaining Benjamites by sparing the women of Jabesh-gilead, who had not come to Mizpah (Judges 21:7-12). The Hebrew word for "provide" is יָשַׁב (yashav), which can mean to settle or establish. 6. Peace with Benjamin The Israelites sent a peace offering to the Benjamites at the rock of Rimmon, inviting them to return and rebuild their cities (Judges 21:13-14). The Hebrew root for "peace" is שָׁלוֹם (shalom), indicating completeness and reconciliation. 7. Festival at Shiloh The Israelites instructed the Benjamites to capture wives from the daughters of Shiloh during a festival to the LORD (Judges 21:19-21). The Hebrew word for "festival" is חַג (chag), denoting a religious feast or celebration. 8. Resolution and Return The Benjamites followed the plan, took wives from Shiloh, and returned to their inheritance to rebuild and inhabit their cities (Judges 21:23). The Hebrew root for "inheritance" is נַחֲלָה (nachalah), referring to a possession or heritage. 9. Conclusion of the Book The chapter and the book of Judges conclude with the statement, "In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes" (Judges 21:25). The Hebrew phrase for "right in his own eyes" is יָשָׁר בְּעֵינָיו (yashar be'enav), highlighting the subjective morality of the time. Lessons from Judges 21 1. The Consequences of Rash Vows In Judges 21, the Israelites made a hasty vow not to give their daughters in marriage to the tribe of Benjamin. This decision led to unforeseen complications. It reminds us of the importance of considering the weight of our words and promises. As Ecclesiastes 5:5 advises, "It is better not to vow than to make a vow and not fulfill it." 2. The Power of Unity Despite their earlier conflict, the Israelites came together to find a solution for the tribe of Benjamin. This unity highlights the strength found in community and collaboration. As Psalm 133:1 states, "How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!" 3. Compassion Amidst Judgment The Israelites showed compassion by seeking a way to preserve the tribe of Benjamin, despite their previous transgressions. This reflects the balance between justice and mercy, echoing Micah 6:8: "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" 4. The Importance of Seeking God’s Guidance The Israelites sought the Lord’s guidance at Bethel, demonstrating the necessity of seeking divine wisdom in our decisions. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." 5. The Role of Forgiveness in Healing The reconciliation process between the tribes involved forgiveness and a willingness to move forward. This is a powerful reminder of the healing that forgiveness can bring, as Ephesians 4:32 instructs, "Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you." 6. Creative Problem Solving Faced with a dilemma, the Israelites devised a plan to provide wives for the Benjamites. This teaches us the value of creative thinking and problem-solving in difficult situations. James 1:5 assures us, "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." 7. The Dangers of Isolation The near extinction of the tribe of Benjamin serves as a warning against isolation. We are reminded of the importance of staying connected to our community and faith. Hebrews 10:25 encourages us, "Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another." 8. The Impact of Leadership The absence of strong leadership in Israel during this time led to chaos and moral decline. This underscores the need for godly leadership in our lives. Proverbs 11:14 states, "For lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors comes deliverance." 9. The Cycle of Sin and Redemption Judges 21 is part of a larger narrative of Israel’s cycle of sin, judgment, and redemption. It reminds us of our own need for repentance and the hope of redemption through Christ. Romans 3:23-24 tells us, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus." 10. God’s Faithfulness Despite Human Failure Despite the failures and shortcomings of the Israelites, God’s faithfulness remained. This is a comforting reminder that God’s promises endure, even when we falter. 2 Timothy 2:13 reassures us, "If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself." These lessons from Judges 21 encourage us to reflect on our own lives, seek God’s wisdom, and trust in His unfailing love and guidance. Topics 1. Oath at Mizpah The chapter begins with the Israelites taking an oath at Mizpah, declaring that none of them would give their daughters in marriage to the Benjamites. This reflects the seriousness of vows in the Hebrew culture, as seen in the original Hebrew word "שָׁבוּעָה" (shavuah), meaning oath or vow. 2. Lament for Benjamin The Israelites express deep sorrow for the near extinction of the tribe of Benjamin. They recognize the gravity of their actions and the consequences of the civil war, highlighting the importance of tribal unity in Israel. 3. Provision for the Benjamites To provide wives for the surviving Benjamites, the Israelites devise a plan to allow the Benjamites to take wives from the women of Jabesh-gilead, who had not participated in the assembly at Mizpah. This reflects the Hebrew concept of "חֶסֶד" (chesed), or loving-kindness, as they seek to restore the tribe. 4. Festival at Shiloh The Israelites instruct the Benjamites to capture wives during a festival at Shiloh. This event underscores the cultural and religious practices of the time, as well as the desperation to preserve the tribe of Benjamin. 5. Resolution and Restoration The chapter concludes with the restoration of the tribe of Benjamin, as the Israelites provide them with wives to ensure their survival. This resolution emphasizes the theme of redemption and the restoration of relationships within the community of Israel. Themes 1. Repentance and Mourning The Israelites express deep sorrow and repentance for the near extinction of the tribe of Benjamin. They recognize the gravity of their actions and seek to make amends. This theme highlights the importance of acknowledging wrongdoing and seeking reconciliation. The Hebrew root for "repentance" (שׁוּב, shuv) implies a turning back or returning to God. 2. Community and Unity The Israelites gather as one community to address the crisis facing the tribe of Benjamin. This theme underscores the significance of unity and collective responsibility within the people of God. The Hebrew word for "assembly" (קָהָל, qahal) reflects the idea of a gathered community with a common purpose. 3. Covenant and Oaths The Israelites grapple with the consequences of their oath not to give their daughters in marriage to the Benjamites. This theme explores the tension between keeping one's word and the need for mercy and restoration. The Hebrew term for "oath" (שְׁבוּעָה, shevu'ah) emphasizes the binding nature of promises made before God. 4. Mercy and Restoration Despite their oath, the Israelites seek a way to provide wives for the surviving Benjamites, demonstrating mercy and a desire for restoration. This theme highlights God's compassion and the possibility of redemption even after severe judgment. The Hebrew root for "mercy" (רַחַם, racham) conveys deep compassion and love. 5. Divine Providence The resolution of the crisis, though complex and fraught with moral ambiguity, reflects a belief in divine providence guiding the events. This theme suggests that God can work through human decisions, even flawed ones, to achieve His purposes. The Hebrew concept of "providence" (הַשְׁגָּחָה, hashgachah) involves God's active involvement in the world. 6. Moral Complexity The chapter presents a morally complex situation where the Israelites must navigate the consequences of their actions and oaths. This theme invites reflection on the challenges of ethical decision-making and the need for wisdom. The Hebrew word for "wisdom" (חָכְמָה, chokhmah) implies skillful living and discernment. Prayer Points Wisdom and Discernment Pray for wisdom and discernment in decision-making, asking God to guide your thoughts and actions. Repentance and Restoration Seek God's forgiveness for past mistakes and pray for opportunities to restore broken relationships. Community and Unity Pray for unity within the body of Christ, that we may work together to support and uplift one another in accordance with God's will. God’s Sovereignty Acknowledge God's sovereignty in all situations, trusting that His plans and purposes are perfect and just. Answering Tough Questions 1. How could an all-knowing God condone vows leading to violence against families and communities (Judges 21:1–11)? 2. Why does the text promote the abduction of women as a solution for the tribe of Benjamin (Judges 21:20–23)? 3. How can a account that endorses forced marriage be harmonized with other biblical teachings on love and compassion (Judges 21)? 4. What archaeological evidence, if any, supports the slaughter of Jabesh-gilead described in this chapter (Judges 21:8–12)? 5. If the Israelites regretted their extreme oath, why didn’t they seek a different resolution instead of resorting to further bloodshed (Judges 21)? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Judges 21 challenge our understanding of morality within the context of historical cultural norms? 2. What lessons can we learn about the consequences of hasty vows from the Israelites' predicament in this chapter? 3. How does the Israelites' reaction to the near extinction of the Tribe of Benjamin reflect on the value they placed on unity among the Twelve Tribes of Israel? 4. How does the ending statement of Judges 21, "In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as they saw fit", reflect on the moral and societal challenges depicted in the book of Judges? 5. How would you have handled the dilemma faced by the Israelites after the war, given the cultural context and available options? 6. How can the actions taken by the Israelites in Judges 21 inform our understanding of decision making in desperate situations? 7. What are some of the modern-day dilemmas that might compare to the one faced by the Israelites in Judges 21, and how might they be handled differently today? 8. How does the situation in Judges 21 reflect the consequences of inter-tribal strife or in broader terms, inter-group conflicts? 9. What implications can be drawn from the Israelites' decisions for the Tribe of Benjamin in terms of conflict resolution and reconciliation? 10. How can the story in Judges 21 guide our understanding of collective responsibility? 11. If you were a leader in Israel at the time, what alternative solutions might you have proposed, and why? 12. How can Judges 21 help us navigate the complexities of upholding cultural traditions versus responding to changing circumstances? 13. In what ways can the book of Judges, particularly chapter 21, inform modern discussions on war, its aftermath, and restoration? 14. If you were part of the Tribe of Benjamin, how would you feel about the decisions made by the rest of Israel? What actions would you take? 15. How do the actions of the Israelites in this chapter inform our understanding of survival, preservation, and the lengths humans will go to ensure these? 16. If you were among the young women of Shiloh, how would you interpret the actions of the Israelites, and how would you respond? 17. How does the moral ambiguity in Judges 21 challenge our notions of 'right' and 'wrong' in the modern world? 18. How might the drastic solutions presented in Judges 21 inform our understanding of the potential consequences of conflict? 19. Given the same scenario today, how would international law address the situation? 20. How can the experiences of the Israelites in Judges 21 guide our approach to solving problems in our own communities today? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions