Judges 20:35

The LORD defeated Benjamin in the presence of Israel, and on that day the Israelites slaughtered 25,100 Benjamites, all armed with swords.

Study Bible

The LORD defeated Benjamin in the presence of Israel
This phrase highlights the divine intervention in the battle, emphasizing that the victory was attributed to the LORD rather than human strength or strategy. This reflects a recurring theme in the Old Testament where God is portrayed as the ultimate warrior and deliverer of His people (Exodus 15:3). The context of this battle is a civil war within Israel, where the tribe of Benjamin was defending the men of Gibeah who had committed a grievous sin (Judges 19). The phrase "in the presence of Israel" suggests that the victory was witnessed by the other tribes, reinforcing the idea that God was actively involved in the affairs of His people. This event serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of seeking God's guidance in conflict.

and on that day the Israelites slaughtered 25,100 Benjamites
The specific number of casualties underscores the severity of the conflict and the extent of the judgment against Benjamin. The use of the word "slaughtered" indicates a decisive and overwhelming defeat, which was common in ancient warfare narratives. This event is part of a larger narrative that illustrates the cycle of sin, judgment, and redemption found throughout the Book of Judges. The historical context reveals the tribal tensions and the fragile unity among the Israelites during this period. The large number of casualties also reflects the seriousness with which God viewed the sin of the Benjamites and the necessity of purging evil from among His people (Deuteronomy 13:5).

all armed with swords
This detail highlights the preparedness and military capability of the Benjamites, who were known for their skill in battle (Judges 20:16). Despite their readiness and armament, they were unable to withstand the judgment of God, illustrating the futility of relying solely on human strength and weapons (Psalm 33:16-17). The mention of swords also connects to the broader biblical theme of spiritual warfare, where believers are called to put on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18). In this context, the physical battle serves as a type of the spiritual battles faced by believers, where victory is achieved not by might, but by the Spirit of the LORD (Zechariah 4:6).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD
The divine being who orchestrates the events and ensures the victory of Israel over Benjamin.

2. Benjamin
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, which is in conflict with the other tribes due to the grievous sin committed in Gibeah.

3. Israelites
The collective tribes of Israel, excluding Benjamin, who unite to execute judgment on the tribe of Benjamin.

4. Gibeah
The city in the territory of Benjamin where the initial crime that led to the conflict occurred.

5. Battle
The event where the Israelites, under divine guidance, defeat the Benjamites, resulting in significant casualties.

Teaching Points

Divine Justice
God is the ultimate judge who ensures justice is served. We must trust in His timing and methods.

Unity in Righteousness
The tribes of Israel united to address sin within their community, demonstrating the importance of collective action against wrongdoing.

Consequences of Sin
The conflict arose from a grievous sin, reminding us that sin has serious consequences that can affect entire communities.

God's Sovereignty in Battle
Victory is attributed to the LORD, teaching us to rely on God's strength rather than our own abilities.

Repentance and Restoration
The aftermath of the battle calls for reflection on repentance and the need for restoration within the community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the outcome of the battle in Judges 20:35 demonstrate God's role in delivering justice?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of unity in addressing sin within our own communities today?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's intervention in a challenging situation. How did it change your perspective on His sovereignty?

4. How can the consequences faced by the tribe of Benjamin serve as a warning for us regarding the seriousness of sin?

5. What steps can we take to ensure that our actions align with seeking God's justice rather than personal vengeance, as seen in Romans 12:19?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 32:30
This verse speaks of how one can chase a thousand, and two put ten thousand to flight, emphasizing the power of God in battle.

1 Samuel 14:6
Jonathan's faith in God's ability to save by many or by few, highlighting the theme of divine intervention in battles.

Psalm 44:3
The psalmist acknowledges that victory comes not by their own sword, but by God's right hand and favor.

Romans 12:19
This New Testament verse speaks to leaving vengeance to God, which connects to the Israelites seeking divine justice rather than personal revenge.

Hebrews 10:30
Reinforces the idea that God is the ultimate judge and avenger, aligning with the theme of divine justice in Judges 20.