What should we do about wives for the survivors, since we have sworn by the LORD not to give them our daughters in marriage?" What should we do about wives for the survivors,The surviving six hundred Benjamite men were sheltered at the rock of Rimmon after the devastating civil war. Israel rightly grieved over the possible loss of one of the twelve tribes, yet the crisis had been intensified by decisions made in anger. Deu 25:5-10 When brothers dwell together and one of them dies… since we have sworn by the LORD The assembled tribes had bound themselves by an oath not to give their daughters in marriage to Benjamin. Because the LORD had been invoked as witness, they feared violating their word and bringing further guilt upon the nation. Jos 9:15-20 And Joshua made a treaty of peace with them to let them live… not to give them our daughters in marriage?” The oath threatened Benjamin’s future, since wives and children were necessary for the tribe’s continuation. Israel sought a way to preserve Benjamin without directly breaking its vow, leading to the later actions involving Jabesh-gilead and the daughters of Shiloh. The troubled resolution reveals the moral disorder of the period, when Israel lacked godly leadership and often acted without seeking the Lord’s wisdom first. Deu 7:3-4 Do not intermarry with them. Do not give your daughters… Persons / Places / Events 1. IsraelitesThe collective tribes of Israel who are dealing with the aftermath of a civil war against the tribe of Benjamin. 2. Tribe of Benjamin One of the twelve tribes of Israel, nearly annihilated due to their involvement in a grievous sin and the subsequent war. 3. Mizpah A place where the Israelites gathered to discuss the situation and make decisions regarding the tribe of Benjamin. 4. Civil War The conflict between the tribe of Benjamin and the other Israelite tribes, resulting in significant loss of life and the near extinction of Benjamin. 5. Oath to the LORD The Israelites had sworn not to give their daughters in marriage to the Benjamites, complicating the restoration of the tribe. Teaching Points The Consequences of Rash VowsMaking vows without considering the long-term implications can lead to difficult situations. The Israelites' oath not to give their daughters to the Benjamites created a moral and social dilemma. Seeking God's Guidance In times of crisis, it is crucial to seek God's wisdom and guidance rather than relying solely on human understanding and decisions. Restoration and Reconciliation The account highlights the importance of restoring relationships and communities, even after severe conflict. The Israelites sought ways to preserve the tribe of Benjamin despite their previous actions. The Importance of Community The Israelites' collective decision-making process underscores the importance of community in addressing and resolving issues. God's Mercy and Justice Despite the Israelites' failures, God's overarching plan includes mercy and justice, reminding us of His faithfulness even when we fall short. Bible Study Questions 1. What can we learn from the Israelites' decision to make a vow without fully considering its consequences? How can this apply to our own decision-making processes?2. How does the account of the tribe of Benjamin's near extinction and restoration reflect God's mercy and justice? Can you think of other biblical examples where God restores what seems lost? 3. In what ways can we seek God's guidance in resolving conflicts within our communities today? How does this compare to the Israelites' approach in Judges 21? 4. How does the concept of community play a role in the resolution of the crisis in Judges 21? What are some practical ways we can strengthen our own communities? 5. Reflect on a time when you faced a difficult decision. How did seeking God's wisdom impact the outcome? How might the Israelites' account in Judges 21 inform your approach to future decisions? Connections to Other Scriptures Judges 20Provides context for the civil war and the events leading to the near destruction of the tribe of Benjamin. Deuteronomy 23:21-23 Discusses the seriousness of making vows to the LORD, highlighting the Israelites' dilemma in Judges 21. Genesis 34 The account of Dinah and Shechem, which also involves inter-tribal marriage issues and vows. 1 Samuel 14:24-45 Another instance where a rash vow leads to unintended consequences, similar to the Israelites' oath in Judges 21. Romans 12:19 Encourages believers to leave vengeance to God, contrasting with the Israelites' actions in Judges.
People Benjamin, Benjaminites, Benjamites, Israelites, JabeshPlaces Bethel, Canaan, Jabesh-gilead, Lebonah, Mizpah, Rimmon, Shechem, ShilohTopics Daughters, Marriage, Oath, Provide, Seeing, Sworn, WivesDictionary of Bible Themes Judges 21:6Library Conclusion As we take up our pen to write these closing paragraphs, we do so conscious that we have merely skimmed, here and there, the surface of a vast ocean of truth. Though upwards of five hundred Scriptures have been referred to in these pages, yet, hundreds more could have been cited in support of the positions which we have advanced. An exhaustive classification and examination of all the passages which are connected, directly or indirectly, with the subject of the Redeemer's Return, would necessitate … Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return Of Civil Government. Judges Links Judges 21:7 NIVJudges 21:7 NLT Judges 21:7 ESV Judges 21:7 NASB Judges 21:7 KJV Judges 21:7 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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