Judges 21:11

This is what you are to do: Devote to destruction every male, as well as every female who has had relations with a man."

Study Bible

This is what you are to do
This phrase sets a directive tone, indicating a command from the leaders of Israel. In the context of ancient Israel, such commands were often seen as divinely sanctioned, reflecting the seriousness with which the Israelites approached their covenant with God. The Hebrew root for "do" (עָשָׂה, asah) implies action and obedience, underscoring the importance of following divine instructions precisely.

Completely destroy
The Hebrew term here is "חָרַם" (charam), which means to devote to destruction or to utterly destroy. This concept is often associated with the idea of something being set apart for God, either for destruction or for sacred use. In the historical context of the Israelites, this was a form of judgment and purification, ensuring that anything that could lead them away from their covenant with God was removed.

every male
The focus on males in this directive reflects the patriarchal structure of ancient Near Eastern societies, where males were often seen as the primary carriers of cultural and religious identity. The destruction of males was intended to prevent the continuation of a lineage that could perpetuate practices contrary to Israelite beliefs.

as well as every female who has slept with a man
This phrase highlights the concern for purity and the prevention of idolatrous practices. In the ancient context, sexual relations were often linked to religious and cultural identity. The Hebrew word for "slept" (שָׁכַב, shakab) can imply not just physical intimacy but also a deeper connection that could influence religious practices. The directive to destroy these women was aimed at preventing the integration of foreign religious practices into Israelite society.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The collective tribes of Israel who are seeking to address the issue of the tribe of Benjamin's near extinction after a civil war.

2. Tribe of Benjamin
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, nearly wiped out due to a conflict with the other tribes over a grievous sin committed in Gibeah.

3. Jabesh-gilead
A city whose inhabitants did not join the assembly of Israel at Mizpah, leading to their being targeted for destruction.

4. Civil War
The internal conflict among the tribes of Israel, specifically between the tribe of Benjamin and the other tribes, resulting in significant loss of life.

5. Mizpah
The gathering place for the Israelites where they took an oath against giving their daughters to the Benjamites.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
The events in Judges 21 highlight the severe consequences of sin and disobedience, both on a personal and communal level. The Israelites' actions were a direct result of the moral decay that had permeated their society.

The Complexity of Justice
The passage challenges us to consider the complexity of justice in a fallen world. The Israelites sought to rectify a wrong but did so through further violence, raising questions about the means and ends of justice.

The Importance of Community and Unity
The near destruction of a tribe underscores the importance of unity and community among God's people. It serves as a warning against division and internal strife.

God's Sovereignty and Mercy
Despite the grim circumstances, God's sovereignty is evident as He preserves a remnant of Benjamin, allowing for eventual restoration and reconciliation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the command in Judges 21:11 reflect the broader theme of justice and judgment in the Old Testament, and what can we learn from it about God's character?

2. In what ways does the account of Jabesh-gilead and the tribe of Benjamin illustrate the consequences of failing to seek God's guidance before making decisions?

3. How can the events in Judges 21 inform our understanding of community and the importance of unity among believers today?

4. What parallels can be drawn between the restoration of the tribe of Benjamin and the concept of redemption found in the New Testament?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Judges 21 to address conflicts and divisions within our own communities or churches?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 20:16-18
Provides context for the command to completely destroy certain peoples, reflecting the concept of herem (devotion to destruction) in warfare.

1 Samuel 11
Describes a later event where the people of Jabesh-gilead are rescued by Saul, showing a redemptive arc for the city.

Judges 20
Offers background on the events leading up to the near destruction of the tribe of Benjamin, providing context for the drastic measures taken in Judges 21.