Judges 20:12

And the tribes of Israel sent men throughout the tribe of Benjamin, saying, "What is this wickedness that has occurred among you?

Study Bible

And the tribes of Israel sent men throughout the tribe of Benjamin,
This phrase indicates a collective action by the tribes of Israel, emphasizing unity among the tribes in addressing a serious issue. The sending of men suggests a formal delegation, which was a common practice in ancient times for communication and negotiation. The tribe of Benjamin was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Jacob's youngest son, Benjamin. This action reflects the tribal confederation system in Israel before the establishment of the monarchy, where tribes acted both independently and collectively. The geographical context places Benjamin in a central location in the land of Israel, which was significant for communication and travel among the tribes.

saying, “What is this wickedness that has occurred among you?
The term "wickedness" here refers to the grievous sin committed in Gibeah, a city within the tribe of Benjamin, as described in the preceding chapter. This wickedness involved the brutal assault and murder of a Levite's concubine, which was a violation of the covenantal laws and moral standards expected of the Israelites. The inquiry reflects a judicial process, seeking accountability and justice. The cultural context of ancient Israel placed a high value on communal purity and righteousness, and such an atrocity demanded a response. This phrase also echoes the prophetic tradition of calling out sin and urging repentance, seen throughout the Old Testament. The call for accountability can be seen as a type of Christ's role in calling out sin and offering redemption.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tribes of Israel
The collective group of the twelve tribes descended from the sons of Jacob, who are addressing the tribe of Benjamin regarding a grievous sin.

2. Tribe of Benjamin
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, which is being confronted by the other tribes for harboring wickedness within its borders.

3. Men Sent
Representatives or messengers from the tribes of Israel tasked with delivering a message of inquiry and confrontation to the tribe of Benjamin.

4. Wickedness
Refers to the grievous sin committed by certain men of Gibeah, a city within the territory of Benjamin, which led to a national crisis.

5. Gibeah
A city in the territory of Benjamin where the atrocity took place, leading to the confrontation by the other tribes.

Teaching Points

Confronting Sin in the Community
The tribes of Israel demonstrate the importance of addressing sin within the community. As believers, we are called to lovingly confront sin to maintain the purity and holiness of the body of Christ.

Corporate Responsibility
The passage highlights the collective responsibility of God's people to uphold righteousness. Each member of the community has a role in ensuring that sin is not tolerated.

Seeking Justice
The inquiry into the wickedness in Benjamin underscores the biblical principle of seeking justice. Believers are called to be advocates for justice and righteousness in their communities.

Unity in Righteousness
The united action of the tribes of Israel serves as a reminder of the power of unity in pursuing God's standards. The church today should strive for unity in upholding biblical truths.

Repentance and Restoration
While the passage focuses on confrontation, it also opens the door for repentance and restoration. The goal of addressing sin is always to bring about repentance and reconciliation.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the tribes of Israel's approach to confronting the tribe of Benjamin about sin within their community?

2. How does the concept of corporate responsibility in addressing sin apply to the modern church?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our pursuit of justice aligns with biblical principles?

4. How can unity among believers strengthen our efforts to uphold righteousness in our communities?

5. What steps can we take to encourage repentance and restoration when addressing sin within the church?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 34
The account of Dinah and Shechem, where a similar situation of moral outrage leads to a call for justice.

Deuteronomy 13
Instructions on how to deal with wickedness within the community, emphasizing the need for purity and justice among God's people.

1 Corinthians 5
Paul's instructions to the Corinthian church on dealing with sin within the community, highlighting the importance of addressing sin to maintain holiness.