The reference to "Four Hundred Thousand Men" is found in the context of the Israelite civil war against the tribe of Benjamin, as recorded in the Book of Judges. This event is a significant moment in the history of Israel, illustrating the severe consequences of moral and social decay within the nation.

Biblical Context

The account of the four hundred thousand men is detailed in Judges 20. The narrative begins with a grievous crime committed in the town of Gibeah, which belonged to the tribe of Benjamin. A Levite's concubine was brutally abused and murdered by the men of Gibeah, leading to national outrage. In response, the Levite dismembered her body and sent the pieces throughout the territories of Israel, calling for justice and action against the perpetrators.

Assembly of Israel

In response to this atrocity, the Israelites gathered as one man from Dan to Beersheba, including the land of Gilead, to Mizpah before the LORD. Judges 20:2 states, "The leaders of all the people of all the tribes of Israel took their places in the assembly of God’s people, four hundred thousand men on foot, armed with swords." This assembly represented a unified front of the tribes of Israel, excluding Benjamin, to address the sin committed in Gibeah.

The Call for Justice

The Israelites demanded that the tribe of Benjamin hand over the wicked men of Gibeah to be put to death and purge the evil from Israel. However, the Benjamites refused to listen to their fellow Israelites and instead prepared for battle against them. This refusal led to a civil war, pitting the tribe of Benjamin against the rest of Israel.

The Battle

The ensuing conflict was fierce and tragic. Despite their smaller numbers, the Benjamites initially succeeded in repelling the larger Israelite forces. However, after seeking the LORD's guidance and receiving His assurance of victory, the Israelites eventually defeated the Benjamites. Judges 20:46 records, "That day 25,000 Benjamite swordsmen fell, all valiant warriors."

Significance

The mobilization of four hundred thousand men underscores the gravity of the situation and the collective resolve of the Israelite tribes to address sin and injustice within their community. This event serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of moral corruption and the importance of upholding righteousness and justice according to God's standards.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the narrative highlights the necessity of communal responsibility in confronting sin. It also reflects the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, where the nation is called to be holy and set apart. The tragic outcome of the conflict, including the near annihilation of the tribe of Benjamin, serves as a warning of the destructive nature of sin and the need for repentance and reconciliation.

Historical and Cultural Context

The period of the Judges was marked by a cycle of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. The lack of centralized leadership and the repeated refrain that "everyone did what was right in his own eyes" (Judges 21:25) contributed to the moral and social chaos of the time. The incident involving the four hundred thousand men is a stark illustration of the anarchy and lawlessness that prevailed in Israel during this era.

In summary, the account of the four hundred thousand men in Judges 20 is a pivotal moment in Israel's history, reflecting the nation's struggle with sin and the pursuit of justice. It serves as a powerful narrative on the importance of unity, righteousness, and adherence to God's commandments.