Judges 20:46

That day 25,000 Benjamite swordsmen fell, all men of valor.

Study Bible

That day
The phrase "that day" refers to a specific moment in the narrative of the Israelite civil war against the tribe of Benjamin. This conflict arose from the grievous crime committed in Gibeah, as detailed in Judges 19. The phrase underscores the immediacy and finality of the judgment executed upon the Benjamites, highlighting the culmination of a series of battles. It serves as a reminder of the swift and decisive nature of divine justice in the biblical narrative.

25,000 Benjamite swordsmen fell
The number 25,000 indicates the significant loss suffered by the tribe of Benjamin. This figure emphasizes the scale of the conflict and the severity of the punishment. The Benjamites were known for their skill in battle, as seen earlier in Judges 20:16, where they are described as left-handed slingers capable of hitting a target with precision. The fall of such a large number of warriors signifies a devastating blow to the tribe, both in terms of military strength and population. This event is a stark reminder of the consequences of sin and disobedience to God's law, as the tribe faced near annihilation due to their defense of the wickedness in Gibeah.

all men of valor
The description "men of valor" highlights the bravery and combat prowess of the Benjamite warriors. This term is often used in the Old Testament to denote individuals of exceptional courage and strength, such as Gideon in Judges 6:12. Despite their valor, the Benjamites' downfall illustrates that human strength and bravery are insufficient when opposed to divine will. The narrative serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and the importance of aligning one's actions with God's commandments. The fall of these valiant men also foreshadows the ultimate victory of righteousness over wickedness, a theme that resonates throughout the biblical text.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Benjamites
A tribe of Israel, descended from Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob. Known for their skill in battle and bravery.

2. Israelites
The collective tribes of Israel, excluding Benjamin, who united to address the moral and social corruption within the tribe of Benjamin.

3. Gibeah
A city in the territory of Benjamin where a grievous crime occurred, leading to the conflict between the Benjamites and the other Israelite tribes.

4. Battle
A significant conflict between the tribe of Benjamin and the other Israelite tribes, resulting in heavy casualties for the Benjamites.

5. Valiant Warriors
Refers to the skilled and courageous fighters from the tribe of Benjamin who fell in battle.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
The conflict arose from a moral failure in Gibeah, reminding us that sin can have devastating communal consequences.

Unity and Justice
The Israelites' response to the crime in Gibeah underscores the importance of unity and justice in addressing sin within the community.

The Cost of War
The heavy loss of life among the Benjamites serves as a sobering reminder of the cost of conflict and the value of seeking peace.

God's Sovereignty
Despite the chaos and destruction, God's sovereign plan unfolds, reminding us that He is in control even in dire circumstances.

Repentance and Restoration
The aftermath of the battle leads to reconciliation and restoration, illustrating the power of repentance and God's mercy.

Bible Study Questions

1. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' response to the sin in Gibeah, and how can we apply these lessons to addressing sin in our communities today?

2. How does the description of the Benjamites as "valiant warriors" challenge or inspire us in our spiritual battles?

3. In what ways does the account of the Benjamites' defeat illustrate the consequences of unrepentant sin, and how can this understanding guide our personal walk with God?

4. How can the unity of the Israelite tribes in seeking justice serve as a model for the church today in addressing moral and social issues?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's sovereignty in a difficult situation. How does this passage encourage you to trust in God's plan despite current challenges?

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 martial prowess.

1 Samuel 9:1-2
Saul, the first king of Israel, was a Benjamite, highlighting the tribe's continued significance in Israel's history.

Romans 11:1
Paul, an apostle, identifies himself as a Benjamite, showing the tribe's enduring legacy and God's faithfulness to all tribes of Israel.