The concept of "Inquiry by the Elders" in the Bible refers to instances where the leaders or elders of Israel sought divine guidance or clarification on matters of spiritual, communal, or legal significance. This practice underscores the role of elders as intermediaries between God and the people, reflecting their responsibility to lead according to divine will and wisdom.

Biblical Instances:

1. Ezekiel 20:1-3: One of the most direct references to the inquiry by the elders is found in the book of Ezekiel. "In the seventh year, in the fifth month, on the tenth day, some of the elders of Israel came to inquire of the LORD, and they sat down before me. Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 'Son of man, speak to the elders of Israel and tell them that this is what the Lord GOD says: Are you coming to inquire of Me? As surely as I live, I will not let you inquire of Me, declares the Lord GOD.'" . Here, the elders approach the prophet Ezekiel to seek God's counsel, but God, through Ezekiel, rebukes them due to their persistent idolatry and disobedience.

2. 1 Samuel 9:9: This passage provides historical context for the practice of seeking divine guidance through prophets. "Formerly in Israel, when a man went to inquire of God, he would say, 'Come, let us go to the seer,' for the prophet of today was formerly called the seer." . This highlights the role of prophets as conduits for divine communication, a role that elders would often utilize in their inquiries.

3. Judges 20:18-28: In this narrative, the Israelites, including their elders, seek God's guidance in a time of national crisis. They inquire of the LORD at Bethel regarding their battle against the tribe of Benjamin. The LORD responds to their inquiries, guiding their actions in the conflict. This illustrates the elders' role in seeking God's will in matters of justice and warfare.

Role and Significance:

The elders in ancient Israel held positions of authority and respect, often serving as judges, leaders, and representatives of the people. Their inquiries were not merely for personal edification but were intended to secure divine direction for the community's welfare. This practice reflects a theocratic understanding of governance, where human leaders are expected to align their decisions with God's revealed will.

Theological Implications:

The inquiries by the elders emphasize the importance of seeking God's guidance in leadership. It underscores the belief that true wisdom and direction come from God, and human leaders must remain humble and dependent on divine insight. The instances where God refuses to answer, as in Ezekiel, serve as a sobering reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the necessity of repentance before seeking divine counsel.

Contemporary Application:

In modern Christian communities, the principle of seeking divine guidance continues to be relevant. Church leaders, akin to the elders of Israel, are encouraged to seek God's will through prayer, Scripture, and the counsel of the Holy Spirit. This practice ensures that decisions made within the church align with biblical teachings and God's purposes.

In summary, the inquiry by the elders is a biblical practice that highlights the necessity of divine guidance in leadership and decision-making, reflecting a deep reliance on God's wisdom and direction for the community's spiritual and moral well-being.