Judges 20:45

Then the Benjamites turned and fled toward the wilderness to the rock of Rimmon, and Israel cut down 5,000 men on the roads. And they overtook them at Gidom and struck down 2,000 more.

Study Bible

Then the Benjamites turned and fled toward the wilderness to the rock of Rimmon
The Benjamites, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, were engaged in a civil war against the other Israelite tribes due to the grievous sin committed in Gibeah. The "wilderness" refers to the desolate and rugged terrain east of the central hill country of Israel, often a place of refuge or escape. The "rock of Rimmon" is a specific location, likely a natural fortress or high place, providing a strategic defensive position. This reflects the desperation and tactical retreat of the Benjamites, seeking safety in a familiar and defensible location. The rock of Rimmon is mentioned again in Judges 20:47, indicating its significance as a place of refuge.

and Israel cut down 5,000 men on the roads
The phrase "cut down" indicates a decisive and violent confrontation. The roads were likely the main routes of escape, suggesting that the Israelites had anticipated the Benjamites' retreat and strategically positioned themselves to intercept them. This reflects the intensity and brutality of the conflict, as well as the determination of the Israelite forces to bring judgment upon the Benjamites for their transgressions. The number 5,000 signifies a significant loss, emphasizing the scale of the battle and the severity of the punishment.

And they overtook them at Gidom and struck down 2,000 more
The location "Gidom" is not mentioned elsewhere in the Bible, indicating it may have been a minor or temporary landmark known to the original audience. The pursuit and additional slaughter of 2,000 Benjamites highlight the relentless nature of the conflict and the thoroughness of the Israelite campaign. This relentless pursuit can be seen as a fulfillment of divine judgment, as the Israelites sought to eradicate the sin from their midst. The total number of casualties underscores the tragic consequences of sin and disobedience within the covenant community.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Benjamites
A tribe of Israel, known for their skilled warriors. In this context, they are fleeing after a devastating defeat.

2. Israel
Refers to the other tribes of Israel who have united against the tribe of Benjamin due to a grievous sin committed in Gibeah.

3. Wilderness
The area to which the Benjamites fled, symbolizing a place of desolation and refuge.

4. Rock of Rimmon
A location where the surviving Benjamites sought refuge, indicating a place of temporary safety.

5. Gidom
A location mentioned as the endpoint of the pursuit, highlighting the thoroughness of Israel's campaign against Benjamin.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
The conflict arose from a grievous sin in Gibeah, reminding us that sin can have far-reaching and devastating consequences.

Unity and Division
The tribes of Israel united against Benjamin, illustrating how sin can cause division even among God's people.

Seeking Refuge
The Benjamites fled to the rock of Rimmon, symbolizing the human tendency to seek refuge in times of distress. Spiritually, we are called to seek refuge in God.

Pursuit of Justice
The relentless pursuit of the Benjamites by Israel highlights the human desire for justice, but also the need for mercy and reconciliation.

God's Sovereignty
Despite the chaos and conflict, God's sovereign plan is at work, reminding us to trust in His ultimate justice and purpose.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the Benjamites' decision to flee to the wilderness, and how does this reflect our own responses to sin and conflict?

2. How does the unity of the Israelite tribes against Benjamin inform our understanding of dealing with sin within the community of believers?

3. In what ways does the rock of Rimmon serve as a metaphor for seeking refuge, and how can we apply this to our spiritual lives?

4. How does the pursuit of the Benjamites by Israel challenge us to consider the balance between justice and mercy in our own lives?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced division within a community. How can the account of Judges 20:45 guide you in seeking reconciliation and unity?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 49:27
This verse describes Benjamin as a ravenous wolf, which can be seen as a prophetic insight into the tribe's fierce nature and eventual conflict with the other tribes.

1 Samuel 14:47-48
Saul, a Benjamite, leads Israel in battle, showing the tribe's warrior legacy and the complexity of their relationship with the other tribes.

Romans 12:19
This verse speaks to the concept of vengeance belonging to the Lord, contrasting human justice with divine justice, relevant to the conflict in Judges 20.