Judges 20:11

So all the men of Israel gathered as one man, united against the city.

Study Bible

So all the men of Israel
This phrase emphasizes the unity and collective action of the Israelite tribes. In the Hebrew text, "all the men of Israel" (כָּל־אִישׁ יִשְׂרָאֵל) underscores the national identity and solidarity among the tribes. Historically, this unity was crucial in times of crisis, reflecting the covenantal bond that held the tribes together as God's chosen people. The phrase reminds us of the importance of unity in the body of Christ, as believers are called to stand together in faith and purpose.

assembled as one man
The expression "as one man" (כְּאִישׁ אֶחָד) signifies complete unanimity and shared purpose. This unity is not merely physical but also spiritual and moral, indicating that the tribes were of one heart and mind in addressing the grievous sin committed in Gibeah. In a broader scriptural context, this unity prefigures the New Testament call for the Church to be united in Christ, reflecting the oneness of the body of believers.

against the city
The city in question is Gibeah, a Benjamite city where a heinous crime had occurred. The phrase "against the city" (עַל־הָעִיר) indicates a directed and purposeful action to address the sin and injustice that had taken place. This reflects the biblical principle of justice and the need to confront sin within the community. Archaeologically, Gibeah has been identified with Tell el-Ful, providing a tangible connection to the biblical narrative.

joined together
The Hebrew root for "joined together" (חָבַר) conveys the idea of binding or allying oneself with others. This term highlights the commitment and determination of the Israelite tribes to act in concert. It serves as a reminder of the power of collective action in pursuing righteousness and justice, echoing the biblical call for believers to be united in their mission and purpose.

as allies
The term "allies" (חֲבֵרִים) suggests a formal agreement or covenantal relationship. In the context of ancient Israel, alliances were often formed for mutual protection and support. This phrase underscores the seriousness of the tribes' commitment to address the sin in Gibeah, reflecting the biblical theme of covenant loyalty and the responsibility to uphold God's standards within the community. It serves as an inspiration for believers to form strong, godly alliances in their pursuit of justice and righteousness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Men of Israel
Refers to the collective tribes of Israel, excluding the tribe of Benjamin, who gathered together in unity to address the grievous sin committed in Gibeah.

2. Gibeah
A city in the territory of Benjamin where a horrific crime was committed against a Levite's concubine, leading to the conflict described in Judges 20.

3. Tribe of Benjamin
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, which defended the inhabitants of Gibeah, leading to a civil war with the other tribes.

4. Levite
A member of the tribe of Levi, whose concubine was abused and killed in Gibeah, sparking the outrage and subsequent gathering of the tribes.

5. Civil War
The event that ensued as a result of the tribes of Israel uniting against the tribe of Benjamin due to the atrocity committed in Gibeah.

Teaching Points

Unity in Righteous Indignation
The Israelites' unity against the sin in Gibeah demonstrates the importance of collective action in addressing moral and spiritual corruption. Believers today are called to stand together against injustice and sin.

The Consequences of Sin
The events in Judges 20 remind us of the destructive nature of sin and the far-reaching consequences it can have on a community. It serves as a warning to guard against allowing sin to take root.

The Role of Justice
The passage underscores the necessity of justice in maintaining the holiness and integrity of God's people. Christians are encouraged to seek justice and righteousness in their communities.

The Danger of Tribalism
The conflict between the tribes of Israel and Benjamin highlights the dangers of tribalism and division within the body of Christ. Unity should be sought in Christ above all else.

Repentance and Restoration
While the passage focuses on judgment, it also points to the need for repentance and the possibility of restoration, which is a central theme throughout Scripture.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the unity of the Israelites in Judges 20:11 about how we should respond to sin within our own communities?

2. How does the account of the Levite and his concubine in Gibeah challenge us to confront injustice and immorality today?

3. In what ways does the civil war between the tribes of Israel and Benjamin illustrate the dangers of division within the church?

4. How can we apply the principles of justice and righteousness from Judges 20 to our personal lives and communities?

5. Reflect on a time when you witnessed or participated in a collective effort to address wrongdoing. What were the outcomes, and how did it align with biblical principles of unity and justice?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 13
This passage discusses the importance of purging evil from among the people, which connects to the Israelites' motivation to unite against the sin in Gibeah.

1 Corinthians 5
Paul addresses the need for the church to deal with sin within its community, paralleling the Israelites' response to sin in their midst.

Psalm 133:1
Highlights the beauty and strength of unity among brethren, which is exemplified by the Israelites coming together as one man.