Judges 21:19

"But look," they said, "there is a yearly feast to the LORD in Shiloh, which is north of Bethel east of the road that goes up from Bethel to Shechem, and south of Lebonah."

Study Bible

But look
This phrase serves as an attention-grabber, urging the audience to focus on the significant event about to be described. In the Hebrew text, the word often translated as "look" is "הִנֵּה" (hinneh), which is used to draw attention to something important or to introduce a new development. It suggests a moment of realization or a call to action, emphasizing the importance of the upcoming feast in the narrative.

there is the annual feast of the LORD
The "annual feast" refers to one of the three major pilgrimage festivals commanded by God in the Torah, likely the Feast of Tabernacles, Passover, or Pentecost. These feasts were times of communal gathering, worship, and celebration, deeply rooted in Israelite tradition. The phrase "of the LORD" underscores the divine ordination of these feasts, highlighting their spiritual significance as times set apart for worship and remembrance of God's covenant with Israel.

in Shiloh
Shiloh was a significant religious center for the Israelites before the establishment of Jerusalem as the capital. It was the location of the Tabernacle, the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites. Archaeological excavations at Shiloh have uncovered remnants that align with its biblical description, affirming its historical and religious importance during the period of the Judges.

which is north of Bethel
Bethel, meaning "House of God," was an important city in the biblical narrative, often associated with patriarchal stories, such as Jacob's dream of the ladder. The geographical reference to Bethel situates Shiloh within the broader landscape of Israel's sacred geography, connecting it to the spiritual heritage of the patriarchs.

east of the road that goes up from Bethel to Shechem
This directional detail provides a precise geographical context, indicating the route pilgrims would take to reach Shiloh. Shechem was another significant city, known for its covenantal associations, such as the renewal of the covenant under Joshua. The road from Bethel to Shechem was a well-traveled path, linking key locations in Israel's spiritual and communal life.

and south of Lebonah
Lebonah, though less prominent in biblical narratives, is mentioned here to further pinpoint Shiloh's location. This detail reflects the thoroughness of the biblical authors in providing a clear and navigable description of the land, emphasizing the accessibility of Shiloh for the Israelites gathering for the feast.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Shiloh
A significant religious center in ancient Israel where the Tabernacle was located. It was a place of worship and pilgrimage for the Israelites.

2. Bethel
A town in the land of Canaan, meaning "House of God." It was an important site for worship and had historical significance for the patriarchs.

3. Shechem
An ancient city of great importance in Israel's history, often associated with covenants and significant events.

4. Lebonah
A lesser-known location mentioned in the context of the geographical description of Shiloh.

5. The Annual Feast of the LORD
A religious festival that brought the Israelites together for worship and celebration, emphasizing community and devotion to God.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Worship Centers
Shiloh, as a central place of worship, reminds us of the importance of having dedicated spaces for communal worship and spiritual growth.

Geographical Significance in Scripture
The detailed description of locations in Judges 21:19 highlights the importance of understanding the historical and geographical context of biblical events.

Community and Celebration
The annual feast at Shiloh emphasizes the value of community gatherings in worship and the celebration of God's faithfulness.

Covenant and Commitment
The connection to Shechem and Bethel reminds us of the importance of renewing our commitment to God and remembering His promises.

Navigating Difficult Times
The context of Judges 21, where Israel seeks solutions after a civil conflict, teaches us about seeking God's guidance in times of national and personal crisis.

Bible Study Questions

1. What role did Shiloh play in the spiritual life of ancient Israel, and how can we apply the concept of a central place of worship in our lives today?

2. How does the geographical description in Judges 21:19 enhance our understanding of the historical context of the events described?

3. In what ways can community celebrations, like the annual feast at Shiloh, strengthen our faith and relationships within the church?

4. How do the events at Bethel and Shechem in other parts of the Bible inform our understanding of God's promises and our commitments to Him?

5. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' approach to resolving conflict and seeking God's guidance in Judges 21, and how can we apply these lessons in our personal and communal lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 1-3
These chapters describe the significance of Shiloh as the location where Hannah prayed for a son, and where Samuel was dedicated to the Lord, highlighting Shiloh's role as a spiritual center.

Genesis 28:10-22
This passage recounts Jacob's dream at Bethel, establishing it as a place of divine encounter and promise.

Joshua 24:1-28
Shechem is the site where Joshua renews the covenant with Israel, underscoring its importance as a place of commitment to God.