Judges 20:21

And the Benjamites came out of Gibeah and cut down 22,000 Israelites on the battlefield that day.

Study Bible

And the Benjamites came out of Gibeah
The tribe of Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, is central in this conflict. Gibeah, a city within Benjamin's territory, is significant as the site of a grievous crime that led to this battle (Judges 19). The Benjamites' defense of Gibeah highlights tribal loyalty and the severe breakdown of unity among the Israelites. Gibeah's location, identified with modern Tell el-Ful, was strategically important, providing a defensible position.

and cut down 22,000 Israelites
The phrase indicates a devastating defeat for the Israelites, who vastly outnumbered the Benjamites. This loss underscores the seriousness of internal strife and the consequences of sin within the community. The number 22,000 may symbolize completeness in judgment, reflecting the severity of the situation. This event parallels other instances in Scripture where Israel suffers due to disobedience or moral failure, such as the defeat at Ai (Joshua 7).

on the battlefield that day
The battlefield context emphasizes the physical and spiritual warfare occurring among God's people. The phrase "that day" suggests a specific, divinely appointed time for judgment. This battle is part of a larger narrative of Israel's cyclical sin and redemption, illustrating the need for a righteous leader. It foreshadows the coming of a perfect Judge and King, fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who brings ultimate peace and unity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Benjamites
A tribe of Israel, descendants of Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob. Known for their fierce warriors, they are central to this conflict.

2. Gibeah
A city in the territory of Benjamin. The events leading to this battle began here, involving a grievous crime that the other tribes sought to punish.

3. Israelites
The collective tribes of Israel, excluding Benjamin, who gathered to address the sin committed in Gibeah and sought justice.

4. Battlefield
The location where the conflict between the Benjamites and the other Israelite tribes took place, resulting in significant loss of life.

5. The Crime in Gibeah
The catalyst for the conflict, involving a heinous act against a Levite's concubine, which led to the call for justice by the other tribes.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
Sin within a community can lead to devastating consequences, affecting not just the perpetrators but the entire group.

The Importance of Justice
While justice is crucial, it must be pursued with wisdom and in accordance with God's guidance, rather than through human anger and vengeance.

Unity and Division Among God's People
The tribes of Israel were meant to be united, yet sin and the response to it caused division. Believers today must strive for unity, even when addressing sin.

The Role of Leadership
Effective and godly leadership is essential in guiding a community through crises and ensuring that actions align with God's will.

Trusting God's Sovereignty
Even in the midst of conflict and loss, believers are called to trust in God's ultimate plan and sovereignty.

Bible Study Questions

1. What lessons can we learn from the Benjamites' initial victory over the Israelites, and how does this apply to spiritual battles we face today?

2. How does the response of the Israelite tribes to the crime in Gibeah reflect the balance between justice and mercy, and how can we apply this balance in our own lives?

3. In what ways does the division among the tribes of Israel serve as a warning for the church today regarding unity and handling internal conflict?

4. How can we ensure that our pursuit of justice aligns with God's will, and what scriptures guide us in this endeavor?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a conflict or challenge. How did trusting in God's sovereignty help you navigate the situation, and what biblical principles supported you?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 49:27
This verse describes Benjamin as a ravenous wolf, which can be seen as a prophetic insight into the tribe's fierce nature, as demonstrated in this battle.

Deuteronomy 13:12-18
Provides instructions on dealing with wickedness within Israel, which parallels the Israelites' response to the crime in Gibeah.

Romans 12:19
Encourages believers to leave vengeance to God, contrasting with the Israelites' decision to take justice into their own hands.