Context and Background:

Judges 20:35 is situated within the narrative of a civil conflict between the tribe of Benjamin and the other Israelite tribes. This chapter is part of the larger narrative found in the Book of Judges, which chronicles the tumultuous period in Israel's history following the conquest of Canaan and preceding the establishment of the monarchy. The events leading up to this verse are rooted in a grievous crime committed in Gibeah, a Benjamite city, which led to a national outcry and a call for justice.

Verse Text (Berean Standard Bible):

"The LORD defeated Benjamin in the presence of Israel, and on that day the Israelites struck down 25,100 men of Benjamin, all armed with swords."

Analysis:

1. Divine Intervention:
The verse underscores the belief in divine intervention in the affairs of Israel. The phrase "The LORD defeated Benjamin" indicates that the victory was attributed not merely to military might or strategy but to the sovereign will and power of God. This reflects a recurring theme in the Hebrew Scriptures where God is seen as the ultimate arbiter of justice and the one who fights on behalf of His people.

2. Judgment and Justice:
The conflict with Benjamin arose from a demand for justice after a heinous crime. The Israelites sought to hold the perpetrators accountable, and when the tribe of Benjamin refused to surrender the guilty parties, it led to war. The defeat of Benjamin is portrayed as an act of divine judgment against sin and moral corruption, emphasizing the importance of righteousness and accountability within the community of God's people.

3. The Cost of Disobedience:
The heavy casualties suffered by the tribe of Benjamin—25,100 men—serve as a sobering reminder of the cost of disobedience and the consequences of failing to uphold God's standards. This tragic loss highlights the destructive nature of sin and the severe repercussions that can follow when a community turns away from God's commandments.

4. Unity and Division:
The civil war between the Israelites and the Benjamites illustrates the potential for division within the people of God. While the tribes were united in their pursuit of justice, the conflict also reveals the deep fractures and tensions that existed among them. This narrative serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of internal strife and the need for unity and reconciliation under God's guidance.

5. Moral and Spiritual Lessons:
The account in Judges 20, including verse 35, offers several moral and spiritual lessons. It calls believers to reflect on the seriousness of sin, the necessity of justice, and the importance of seeking God's will in resolving conflicts. It also encourages a reliance on divine guidance and intervention in the pursuit of righteousness and peace.

Conclusion:

Judges 20:35 is a pivotal verse that encapsulates the themes of divine justice, the consequences of sin, and the need for unity among God's people. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the importance of aligning with His will to achieve true justice and peace. The narrative challenges believers to uphold righteousness and seek God's guidance in all aspects of life, recognizing that ultimate victory and justice come from the Lord.25100 (1 Occurrence)

Judges 20:35
Yahweh struck Benjamin before Israel; and the children of Israel destroyed of Benjamin that day twenty-five thousand one hundred men: all these drew the sword.
(See NAS NIV)

25100 (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance 25100 (1 Occurrence). Judges 20:35 Yahweh struck
Benjamin before Israel; and the children of Israel destroyed ...
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25000 (11 Occurrences)

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26000 (2 Occurrences)

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