Judges 18:8

When the men returned to Zorah and Eshtaol, their brothers asked them, "What did you find?"

Study Bible

When they returned
This phrase indicates a journey back to a starting point, suggesting a mission or task that has been completed. In the context of Judges 18, the returning refers to the spies sent by the tribe of Dan to scout the land. The Hebrew root for "returned" is "שׁוּב" (shuv), which often implies a turning back or repentance. Here, it signifies the completion of a reconnaissance mission, reflecting the tribe's determination to find a new inheritance, as their allotted territory was insufficient.

to their brothers
This phrase emphasizes the familial and tribal connections among the Israelites. The term "brothers" in Hebrew is "אַחִים" (achim), which can mean literal siblings or, more broadly, members of the same tribe or community. This highlights the unity and shared purpose among the Danites, as they seek to secure a future for their people. It underscores the importance of community and collective action in the biblical narrative.

at Zorah and Eshtaol
These locations are significant as they are part of the original territory of the tribe of Dan. Zorah and Eshtaol are situated in the Shephelah region of Judah, indicating the Danites' struggle to expand their territory due to pressure from surrounding peoples. Archaeological evidence suggests these areas were significant during the period of the Judges, serving as a base for the Danites' operations and highlighting the historical context of their migration.

their brothers asked them
This phrase shows the anticipation and eagerness of the Danite community to hear the report from the spies. The act of asking indicates a participatory decision-making process within the tribe, reflecting the communal nature of Israelite society. It also suggests a reliance on divine guidance and the importance of seeking counsel before taking action.

“What did you find?”
This question is direct and to the point, reflecting the urgency and importance of the mission. The Hebrew root for "find" is "מָצָא" (matsa), which can mean to discover or obtain. In this context, it implies the search for a new homeland, a place where the tribe of Dan can settle and thrive. This question sets the stage for the subsequent actions of the Danites, as they prepare to move forward based on the spies' report.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Danite Spies
A group of five men from the tribe of Dan sent to explore the land for a suitable place to settle, as their allotted territory was insufficient.

2. Zorah and Eshtaol
These are towns in the territory of Dan, serving as the starting point for the Danite spies' journey and their return location.

3. The Tribe of Dan
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, struggling to find a permanent and peaceful settlement in the Promised Land.

4. The Brothers
The fellow Danites who remained in Zorah and Eshtaol, awaiting the report from the spies.

5. The Exploration
The event of the spies traveling to the hill country of Ephraim, including the house of Micah, to find a new territory.

Teaching Points

Seeking God's Guidance
The Danites' journey reflects a human tendency to rely on our own understanding rather than seeking God's direction. Believers are encouraged to seek God's will in all decisions.

The Consequences of Disobedience
The Danites' struggles are a result of incomplete obedience to God's commands. This serves as a reminder of the importance of full obedience to God's Word.

Community and Accountability
The return of the spies to their brothers highlights the importance of community and accountability in decision-making processes within the body of Christ.

Contentment and Trust
The Danites' dissatisfaction with their allotted land can teach us about the dangers of discontentment and the importance of trusting God's provision.

The Impact of Leadership
The actions of the Danite leaders had significant consequences for the entire tribe, illustrating the importance of godly leadership and decision-making.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the experience of the Danite spies in Judges 18:8 reflect the importance of seeking God's guidance in our own lives? Consider Proverbs 3:5-6 in your response.

2. In what ways can the struggles of the tribe of Dan serve as a warning about the consequences of incomplete obedience to God's commands?

3. How can we apply the principle of community and accountability, as seen in the return of the spies to their brothers, in our church or small group settings?

4. Reflect on a time when you felt discontent with your circumstances. How can the account of the Danites encourage you to trust in God's provision and timing?

5. What lessons can we learn about leadership from the actions of the Danite leaders, and how can these lessons be applied in our roles within our families, workplaces, or churches?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 19:40-48
This passage details the original allotment of land to the tribe of Dan, highlighting their struggle to fully possess it, which sets the context for their exploration in Judges 18.

Judges 1:34
This verse describes how the Amorites forced the Danites into the hill country, emphasizing their need to find a new territory.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Encourages trust in the Lord for guidance, contrasting the Danites' reliance on their own understanding and actions.