Judges 20:18

The Israelites set out, went up to Bethel, and inquired of God, "Who of us shall go up first to fight against the Benjamites?" "Judah will be first," the LORD replied.

Study Bible

The Israelites set out
This phrase indicates a decisive action taken by the Israelites. The Hebrew root for "set out" is "נָסַע" (nasa), which often implies a journey or a purposeful movement. Historically, this reflects the Israelites' collective resolve to address the grievous sin committed in Gibeah, demonstrating their commitment to justice and unity as a nation under God.

went up to Bethel
"Bethel," meaning "House of God" in Hebrew, was a significant spiritual center for the Israelites. Archaeologically, Bethel is identified with the modern-day site of Beitin. It was a place where patriarchs like Abraham and Jacob had encountered God, making it a fitting location for seeking divine guidance. This highlights the Israelites' desire to align their actions with God's will.

and inquired of God
The act of inquiring of God underscores the Israelites' dependence on divine guidance. The Hebrew word "שָׁאַל" (sha'al) means to ask or consult, indicating a formal seeking of God's will. This reflects a theocratic society where decisions, especially those involving warfare, were made with divine consultation, emphasizing the importance of spiritual discernment in leadership.

'Who of us shall go up first to fight against the Benjamites?'
This question reveals the Israelites' strategic and spiritual approach to warfare. The phrase "go up" (עָלָה, alah) often implies ascending to a place of significance or battle. The context here is a civil war within Israel, highlighting the gravity of internal conflict and the need for divine direction in resolving such disputes.

And the LORD replied
The direct response from the LORD signifies the active communication between God and His people. The Hebrew term "אָמַר" (amar) for "replied" suggests a definitive and authoritative answer. This interaction underscores the belief in a personal God who guides His people, reinforcing the covenant relationship between God and Israel.

'Judah shall go first.'
Judah, meaning "praise" in Hebrew, was the tribe from which leadership and kingship would eventually emerge, as prophesied in Genesis 49:10. The choice of Judah to lead reflects God's sovereign plan and foreshadows the tribe's future prominence. This decision also serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience and trust in God's strategic purposes, even in times of conflict.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The collective tribes of Israel, excluding Benjamin, who are seeking guidance from God in their conflict against the tribe of Benjamin.

2. Bethel
A significant location in Israelite history, often associated with worship and seeking God's guidance. It means "House of God" in Hebrew.

3. God (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who the Israelites seek for direction in their military campaign.

4. Benjamites
The tribe of Benjamin, who are in conflict with the other tribes of Israel due to a grievous sin committed in Gibeah.

5. Judah
The tribe chosen by God to lead the battle against the Benjamites. Judah means "praise" in Hebrew and is often seen as a leading tribe in Israel.

Teaching Points

Seeking Divine Guidance
The Israelites' approach to inquire of God before battle emphasizes the importance of seeking God's will in our decisions. We should prioritize prayer and discernment in our lives.

Role of Leadership
Judah's selection to lead highlights the importance of God-ordained leadership. We should recognize and respect the leaders God places in our lives.

Unity and Obedience
The tribes of Israel, despite internal conflict, come together to seek God's direction. This teaches us the value of unity and obedience to God's commands, even in challenging times.

Consequences of Sin
The conflict with Benjamin arose from sin within the tribe. This serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of sin and the need for accountability and repentance.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the Israelites' decision to inquire of God at Bethel teach us about the importance of seeking divine guidance in our own lives?

2. How does the choice of Judah to lead the battle reflect God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His promises, as seen in other parts of Scripture?

3. In what ways can we apply the principle of unity and obedience to God's will in our communities and churches today?

4. How does the conflict with the Benjamites illustrate the consequences of sin, and what steps can we take to address sin in our own lives and communities?

5. Reflect on a time when you sought God's guidance in a difficult situation. How did that experience shape your understanding of His will and direction?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 49:8-10
This passage contains Jacob's blessing over Judah, prophesying leadership and prominence, which connects to Judah being chosen to lead the battle.

1 Samuel 1:3
Bethel is mentioned as a place of worship, reinforcing its significance as a place where the Israelites sought divine guidance.

Psalm 60:12
This verse speaks of victory through God, which relates to the Israelites seeking God's direction for success in battle.