Judges 20:47

But 600 men turned and fled into the wilderness to the rock of Rimmon, where they stayed four months.

Study Bible

But six hundred men turned and fled into the wilderness to the rock of Rimmon, where they stayed four months
But six hundred men
This phrase highlights the remnant of the tribe of Benjamin after a devastating civil war with the other Israelite tribes. The number "six hundred" signifies a small fraction of the original fighting force, emphasizing the severe judgment and near annihilation they faced. In Hebrew, the word for "six hundred" (שֵׁשׁ מֵאוֹת, shesh me'ot) underscores completeness in judgment, as the number six often symbolizes imperfection or incompleteness, contrasting with the divine perfection of seven. This remnant represents God's mercy, preserving a seed for future restoration.

turned and fled
The Hebrew root for "turned" (פָּנָה, panah) implies a change of direction or repentance. In this context, it is a physical turning away from battle, but it can also symbolize a spiritual turning or repentance. "Fled" (נָס, nas) indicates a hurried escape, driven by fear and desperation. This action reflects the dire circumstances and the instinct for survival, yet it also opens the door for future redemption and reconciliation.

into the wilderness
The "wilderness" (מִדְבָּר, midbar) in biblical terms often represents a place of testing, purification, and encounter with God. It is a place of desolation but also of divine provision and revelation, as seen in the Israelites' journey during the Exodus. For the Benjaminites, the wilderness becomes a refuge and a place of reflection, away from the immediate threat of their brethren, allowing for a period of regrouping and spiritual renewal.

to the rock of Rimmon
The "rock of Rimmon" serves as a natural fortress and a place of safety. In Hebrew, "rock" (צוּר, tsur) symbolizes strength, stability, and protection, often associated with God Himself as a "rock" of refuge. "Rimmon" may refer to a location known for its rocky terrain, providing a strategic advantage for defense. This setting underscores God's provision of a safe haven amidst judgment, pointing to His enduring faithfulness even in times of severe discipline.

where they stayed four months
The duration of "four months" (אַרְבָּעָה חֳדָשִׁים, arba'ah chadashim) signifies a complete cycle of time, allowing for healing and reflection. The number four often represents universality or completeness in the earthly realm, suggesting a period sufficient for the Benjaminites to contemplate their actions and the consequences. This time of seclusion prepares them for reintegration into the community of Israel, highlighting themes of repentance, restoration, and the hope of reconciliation with God and their fellow Israelites.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Benjamites
A tribe of Israel involved in a civil war against the other Israelite tribes due to the grievous sin committed in Gibeah.

2. The Rock of Rimmon
A location in the wilderness where the surviving Benjamite men sought refuge after their defeat.

3. The Wilderness
Represents a place of refuge and survival, often associated with testing and divine encounters in the Bible.

4. The Civil War
A conflict between the tribe of Benjamin and the other tribes of Israel, sparked by the atrocity committed in Gibeah.

5. The Four Months
The period during which the surviving Benjamites stayed at the rock, indicating a time of reflection and regrouping.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
The civil war and near destruction of the tribe of Benjamin serve as a stark reminder of the severe consequences of unchecked sin.

Seeking Refuge in God
Just as the Benjamites found refuge at the rock of Rimmon, believers are called to seek refuge in God during times of trial.

The Wilderness Experience
Times of isolation and testing can lead to spiritual growth and renewal if we remain faithful and seek God's guidance.

Community and Reconciliation
The eventual reconciliation between the Benjamites and the other tribes underscores the importance of unity and forgiveness within the body of Christ.

Perseverance in Trials
The endurance of the Benjamites during their four months at the rock encourages believers to persevere through difficult seasons, trusting in God's provision and timing.

Bible Study Questions

1. What lessons can we learn from the Benjamites' decision to seek refuge at the rock of Rimmon, and how can we apply this to our own lives when facing trials?

2. How does the account of the Benjamites' near destruction highlight the importance of addressing sin within a community, and what steps can we take to ensure accountability in our own faith communities?

3. In what ways does the concept of the wilderness as a place of testing and growth appear throughout Scripture, and how can we embrace our own "wilderness" experiences?

4. How can the eventual reconciliation between the Benjamites and the other tribes inform our approach to conflict resolution and forgiveness within the church?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to persevere through a difficult situation. How did your faith sustain you, and what biblical principles can you draw from Judges 20:47 to encourage others in similar circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 19
The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah parallels the moral decay seen in Gibeah, highlighting the consequences of sin.

1 Samuel 14
Jonathan's victory at the rock of Rimmon shows how God can use places of refuge for deliverance and victory.

Psalm 18:2
The imagery of God as a rock and refuge connects to the Benjamites' physical refuge at the rock of Rimmon.

Matthew 4:1-11
Jesus' time in the wilderness reflects the theme of testing and reliance on God, similar to the Benjamites' experience.

Hebrews 12:1-2
Encourages believers to persevere through trials, akin to the Benjamites' endurance during their time at the rock.