Judges 20:47

But 600 men turned and fled into the wilderness to the rock of Rimmon, where they stayed four months.

Study Bible

But 600 men turned and fled
This phrase indicates a remnant of the tribe of Benjamin who survived the devastating civil war against the other Israelite tribes. The number 600 is significant, as it represents a small fraction of the original fighting force, highlighting the severity of the conflict. The act of fleeing suggests desperation and a strategic retreat to preserve life. This remnant concept is echoed throughout Scripture, where God often preserves a faithful few, such as Noah's family during the flood or the remnant of Israel in prophetic writings.

into the wilderness
The wilderness often symbolizes a place of testing, refuge, and divine encounter in the Bible. It is a place where God meets His people, as seen with Moses and the Israelites during the Exodus. The wilderness serves as a backdrop for transformation and reliance on God, suggesting that the Benjaminites' time there could be a period of reflection and potential repentance.

to the rock of Rimmon
The rock of Rimmon is a specific geographical location, likely a natural fortress or stronghold, providing a strategic advantage for defense and survival. Rocks and high places in Scripture often symbolize safety and refuge, akin to God being described as a "rock" or "fortress" in Psalms. This location underscores the Benjaminites' need for protection and security after their defeat.

where they stayed four months
The duration of four months indicates a significant period of waiting and uncertainty. Biblically, the number four can symbolize completeness or universality, as seen in the four corners of the earth or the four living creatures in Revelation. This time frame suggests a complete cycle of waiting, possibly for divine intervention or the resolution of conflict. The period of waiting can also be seen as a time for the Benjaminites to regroup and plan their next steps, reflecting themes of patience and endurance found throughout Scripture.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Benjamites
A tribe of Israel involved in a civil war against the other Israelite tribes due to the grievous sin committed in Gibeah.

2. The Rock of Rimmon
A location in the wilderness where the surviving Benjamite men sought refuge after their defeat.

3. The Wilderness
Represents a place of refuge and survival, often associated with testing and divine encounters in the Bible.

4. The Civil War
A conflict between the tribe of Benjamin and the other tribes of Israel, sparked by the atrocity committed in Gibeah.

5. The Four Months
The period during which the surviving Benjamites stayed at the rock, indicating a time of reflection and regrouping.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
The civil war and near destruction of the tribe of Benjamin serve as a stark reminder of the severe consequences of unchecked sin.

Seeking Refuge in God
Just as the Benjamites found refuge at the rock of Rimmon, believers are called to seek refuge in God during times of trial.

The Wilderness Experience
Times of isolation and testing can lead to spiritual growth and renewal if we remain faithful and seek God's guidance.

Community and Reconciliation
The eventual reconciliation between the Benjamites and the other tribes underscores the importance of unity and forgiveness within the body of Christ.

Perseverance in Trials
The endurance of the Benjamites during their four months at the rock encourages believers to persevere through difficult seasons, trusting in God's provision and timing.

Bible Study Questions

1. What lessons can we learn from the Benjamites' decision to seek refuge at the rock of Rimmon, and how can we apply this to our own lives when facing trials?

2. How does the account of the Benjamites' near destruction highlight the importance of addressing sin within a community, and what steps can we take to ensure accountability in our own faith communities?

3. In what ways does the concept of the wilderness as a place of testing and growth appear throughout Scripture, and how can we embrace our own "wilderness" experiences?

4. How can the eventual reconciliation between the Benjamites and the other tribes inform our approach to conflict resolution and forgiveness within the church?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to persevere through a difficult situation. How did your faith sustain you, and what biblical principles can you draw from Judges 20:47 to encourage others in similar circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 19
The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah parallels the moral decay seen in Gibeah, highlighting the consequences of sin.

1 Samuel 14
Jonathan's victory at the rock of Rimmon shows how God can use places of refuge for deliverance and victory.

Psalm 18:2
The imagery of God as a rock and refuge connects to the Benjamites' physical refuge at the rock of Rimmon.

Matthew 4:1-11
Jesus' time in the wilderness reflects the theme of testing and reliance on God, similar to the Benjamites' experience.

Hebrews 12:1-2
Encourages believers to persevere through trials, akin to the Benjamites' endurance during their time at the rock.