Judges 20:17

The Israelites, apart from Benjamin, mobilized 400,000 swordsmen, each one an experienced warrior.

Study Bible

The Israelites, apart from Benjamin
This phrase highlights the division within the tribes of Israel, as the tribe of Benjamin is excluded from the rest of the Israelite confederation. This division is significant in the context of the civil war that ensues due to the grievous sin committed in Gibeah, a Benjamite city. The exclusion of Benjamin underscores the severity of the conflict and the moral outrage felt by the other tribes. Historically, the tribes of Israel were meant to be united under the covenant with God, but internal strife often led to divisions, as seen here. This division foreshadows later splits in the kingdom, such as the division between Israel and Judah.

mobilized 400,000 swordsmen
The mobilization of such a large number of warriors indicates the seriousness with which the Israelites approached the conflict. This number suggests a significant military capability and reflects the tribal confederation's ability to gather a large force when necessary. The use of swordsmen points to the common weaponry of the time, with swords being a primary tool for warfare. This mobilization can be compared to other instances in the Old Testament where Israel gathers for battle, such as in the wars against the Canaanites and Philistines.

each one an experienced warrior
The emphasis on the warriors being experienced suggests that these were not merely conscripted men but seasoned fighters, likely with previous battle experience. This detail highlights the gravity of the situation and the Israelites' determination to address the sin in Gibeah decisively. The concept of experienced warriors is echoed in other biblical narratives, such as David's mighty men, who were known for their valor and skill in battle. This phrase also underscores the theme of God using human agency and military might to achieve divine purposes, as seen throughout the history of Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Men of Israel
Refers to the collective tribes of Israel, excluding the tribe of Benjamin. They are preparing for battle against their fellow Israelites, the Benjamites, due to a grievous sin committed in Gibeah.

2. Benjamin
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, which is at the center of the conflict due to the actions of some of its members in Gibeah. The tribe is being confronted by the other tribes for justice.

3. Four Hundred Thousand Swordsmen
This number represents the assembled army of Israel, indicating the seriousness and scale of the conflict. It highlights the unity and determination of the tribes to address the sin in their midst.

4. Men of War
This term emphasizes the readiness and capability of the Israelite army, suggesting that they are experienced and prepared for the impending battle.

5. Gibeah
The location where the initial crime occurred, leading to the conflict. It is a city within the territory of Benjamin.

Teaching Points

Unity in Addressing Sin
The tribes of Israel demonstrate the importance of coming together to address sin within the community. This unity is crucial for maintaining holiness and justice.

The Seriousness of Sin
The large number of men prepared for battle underscores the seriousness with which sin should be treated. It serves as a reminder that sin has consequences and must be dealt with decisively.

Righteous Indignation
The Israelites' response to the sin in Gibeah reflects a righteous indignation that believers should have towards sin. It is important to be zealous for God's standards.

Community Responsibility
The passage highlights the responsibility of the community to hold its members accountable. This is a call for believers to lovingly confront and restore those who have fallen into sin.

Preparation for Spiritual Battles
Just as the Israelites prepared for physical battle, believers must be prepared for spiritual battles, equipped with the armor of God as described in Ephesians.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the unity of the Israelite tribes in Judges 20:17 teach us about addressing sin within the church today?

2. How can we apply the concept of righteous indignation in our personal lives when confronted with sin?

3. In what ways does the preparation of the Israelite army parallel the spiritual preparation believers need for facing challenges today?

4. How does the account of the conflict with Benjamin illustrate the importance of community accountability in the body of Christ?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to confront sin in your own life or in the life of someone else. What biblical principles guided your actions, and what was the outcome?

Connections to Other Scriptures

The conflict in Judges 20 can be connected to the broader theme of Israel's cycle of sin and redemption found throughout the Book of Judges. This cycle is also evident in the accounts of other judges like Gideon and Samson.

The unity of the tribes against Benjamin can be compared to the unity seen in the early church in Acts, where believers came together to address issues within the community.

The concept of justice and dealing with sin within the community is echoed in the New Testament, where church discipline is discussed in the context of maintaining purity and righteousness.