What is the meaning of Judges 21:17? They added “Then the elders of the congregation spoke again” (Judges 21:17). The phrase shows deliberate reflection after the civil war with Benjamin (Judges 20). • The leaders refuse to walk away until a righteous solution is found, echoing earlier gatherings like Joshua 22:12–16 where Israel met to preserve unity. • Psalm 133:1 reminds us how precious unity is among God’s people, pushing the leaders to keep talking until they safeguard every tribe. There must be heirs The goal is physical descendants—“seed” to keep the line going. • Leviticus 25:10 keeps family inheritance inside each tribe, so heirs are vital. • Deuteronomy 25:5–6 mandates the levirate principle to produce offspring “so that his name will not be blotted out from Israel.” • Without sons, Benjamin’s families would lose their God-given allotment (Joshua 18:21–28), contradicting God’s promise in Numbers 26:55. for the survivors of Benjamin Only 600 men remain (Judges 20:47). • God preserved a remnant before—see 1 Kings 19:18 with the 7,000 who had not bowed to Baal. • Isaiah 10:20–22 shows how God works through small remnants to restore His people. • The elders recognize that even these scarred survivors are still covenant brothers (Judges 21:6). so that a tribe of Israel The concern widens from individual families to the national tapestry. • Genesis 49:28 calls Benjamin one of the twelve tribes blessed by Jacob; losing one would mar God’s design. • Numbers 2:1–34 lists Benjamin in camp formation; every tribe had a role in Israel’s march and warfare. • Revelation 7:8 still names Benjamin among the sealed servants, proving God’s intent never changed. will not be wiped out Eradication would contradict God’s covenant faithfulness. • Judges 21:1 records the hasty oath that no one would give daughters to Benjamin, but the leaders now face its unintended consequence—potential annihilation. • Psalm 94:14 assures, “For the LORD will not forsake His people; He will never abandon His inheritance.” • Romans 11:1–2 reflects the same truth: “Has God rejected His people? Certainly not!” Israel’s ongoing existence validates God’s steadfast mercy. summary Judges 21:17 captures a crucial moment of repentance and restoration. The elders recognize their duty to secure heirs, preserve Benjamin’s remnant, and maintain the integrity of all twelve tribes. Their determination echoes God’s unwavering commitment to protect His covenant people and ensure every promise stands unbroken. |
    |