Judges 21:22

When 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.'"

Study Bible

When their fathers or brothers come to us to complain
This phrase sets the stage for a potential conflict resolution. In the historical context of ancient Israel, family ties were paramount, and the role of fathers and brothers was significant in protecting and providing for the women in their family. The Hebrew root for "complain" (רִיב, "riv") often implies a legal dispute or contention, suggesting that the Israelites anticipated a formal grievance. This reflects the communal and familial structures of the time, where disputes were often settled through dialogue and negotiation.

we will tell them
The phrase indicates a premeditated response, showing the leaders' intention to manage the situation diplomatically. This reflects the wisdom literature of the Bible, where careful speech and planning are often emphasized. The Hebrew culture placed a high value on the spoken word, understanding its power to build or destroy relationships.

‘Do us a favor by helping them
This request for a favor is an appeal to the communal responsibility and mutual aid that were central to Israelite society. The Hebrew concept of "chesed" (חֶסֶד), often translated as loving-kindness or covenant loyalty, underpins this appeal. It suggests that the community should act out of loyalty and kindness to rectify the situation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining harmony and support within the tribe.

because we did not get wives for them during the war
This phrase acknowledges a failure or oversight during a time of conflict. The historical context here is crucial: the Israelites had sworn an oath not to give their daughters to the Benjamites, leading to a crisis when the tribe of Benjamin needed to rebuild. The mention of "war" highlights the chaotic and destructive nature of conflict, which often leads to unintended consequences that require creative solutions.

You are innocent
Declaring innocence is a legal and moral statement, absolving the fathers and brothers from guilt. In the Hebrew legal system, innocence and guilt were significant, with implications for both personal and communal standing. This assurance of innocence is crucial for maintaining peace and preventing further bloodshed or retribution, aligning with the biblical theme of justice tempered with mercy.

since you did not give your daughters to them
This final phrase refers back to the oath taken by the Israelites, which was a binding commitment. The Hebrew word for "give" (נָתַן, "natan") often implies a transfer of responsibility or blessing. By emphasizing that the daughters were not given, the leaders are upholding the letter of the oath while finding a way to circumvent its spirit to ensure the survival of the tribe of Benjamin. This reflects the biblical tension between law and grace, where strict adherence to rules is balanced with the need for compassion and restoration.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The collective tribes of Israel, who are dealing with the aftermath of a civil war against the tribe of Benjamin.

2. The Benjamites
The tribe of Benjamin, nearly wiped out due to the conflict with the other Israelite tribes.

3. The Fathers and Brothers
The family members of the women taken as wives for the Benjamites, who might object to the arrangement.

4. Shiloh
The place where the Israelites gathered to seek the Lord's guidance and where the annual festival took place.

5. The Oath
The vow made by the Israelites not to give their daughters in marriage to the Benjamites, which complicates the resolution of the conflict.

Teaching Points

The Complexity of Human Solutions
Human solutions to problems can be complex and imperfect, as seen in the Israelites' attempt to resolve the issue with the Benjamites while adhering to their oath.

The Importance of Community Restoration
The Israelites' actions highlight the importance of restoring and maintaining community, even after severe conflict.

Balancing Justice and Mercy
The account illustrates the tension between justice (upholding the oath) and mercy (ensuring the survival of the Benjamites).

The Role of Leadership in Conflict Resolution
Effective leadership is crucial in navigating complex moral and ethical dilemmas, as demonstrated by the leaders of Israel.

The Consequences of Rash Vows
The account serves as a cautionary tale about making rash vows and the potential consequences that follow.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the resolution in Judges 21:22 reflect the Israelites' commitment to both justice and mercy?

2. In what ways does the account of the Benjamites challenge us to think about the importance of community restoration today?

3. How can we apply the lessons from the Israelites' leadership in resolving conflicts within our own communities or churches?

4. What are some modern-day examples of balancing justice and mercy, and how can we apply biblical principles to these situations?

5. How does the account in Judges 21:22 inform our understanding of the importance and consequences of making vows or promises?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 20
Provides context for the civil war between the Israelites and the Benjamites, explaining the events leading up to the near extinction of the tribe of Benjamin.

Deuteronomy 23:21-23
Discusses the importance of keeping vows made before God, highlighting the tension between the Israelites' oath and their need to preserve the tribe of Benjamin.

Romans 12:18
Encourages living at peace with everyone, which relates to the Israelites' efforts to reconcile and restore the tribe of Benjamin.

Matthew 5:37
Jesus' teaching on letting your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No,' which underscores the importance of integrity in making and keeping promises.