Judges 21:13

Then the whole congregation sent a message of peace to the Benjamites who were at the rock of Rimmon.

Study Bible

Then the whole congregation
This phrase refers to the assembly of the Israelites, representing the collective decision-making body of the twelve tribes. In the context of Judges, the term "congregation" often denotes a gathering for a significant purpose, such as making a covenant or addressing a national crisis. The unity of the tribes is emphasized here, highlighting the importance of collective action in resolving internal conflicts.

sent a message of peace
The act of sending a message of peace indicates a desire for reconciliation and restoration of fellowship. This is significant given the preceding chapters, where the tribe of Benjamin was nearly annihilated due to a civil war sparked by the grievous sin in Gibeah. The message of peace reflects a turning point from judgment to mercy, aligning with biblical themes of forgiveness and restoration found throughout Scripture, such as in Matthew 5:9, "Blessed are the peacemakers."

to the Benjamites
The Benjamites, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, were in a precarious position after the conflict. Historically, the tribe of Benjamin held a strategic location in the central highlands of Canaan, which was significant for trade and military defense. The tribe's near destruction posed a threat to the unity and strength of Israel as a whole. This outreach to the Benjamites underscores the importance of maintaining the integrity of the twelve tribes.

who were at the rock of Rimmon
The rock of Rimmon served as a refuge for the surviving Benjamites. Geographically, it is located in the wilderness of Benjamin, providing a natural fortress. This location is significant as it symbolizes both the isolation and the protection of the remnant of Benjamin. The rock of Rimmon can be seen as a type of Christ, who is often referred to as a rock or refuge in Scripture (e.g., Psalm 18:2), offering safety and hope to those who seek Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Whole Congregation
Refers to the assembly of the Israelites, representing the collective tribes of Israel, excluding Benjamin at this point. They are acting together to resolve the conflict with the tribe of Benjamin.

2. The Benjamites
The tribe of Benjamin, which had been nearly annihilated due to a civil war with the other Israelite tribes. They were in a vulnerable position, hiding at the rock of Rimmon.

3. The Rock of Rimmon
A location where the surviving Benjamites had taken refuge. It symbolizes a place of safety and isolation during a time of conflict.

4. Message of Peace
The Israelites' attempt to reconcile with the Benjamites, indicating a desire to restore unity and peace among the tribes of Israel.

5. Civil War in Israel
The broader context of this verse is the aftermath of a brutal civil war between the tribe of Benjamin and the other Israelite tribes, sparked by a grievous crime committed in Gibeah.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Reconciliation
The Israelites' message of peace to the Benjamites underscores the biblical principle of seeking reconciliation, even after severe conflict. Christians are called to be peacemakers in their communities.

Unity Among Believers
The division among the tribes of Israel serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of disunity. Believers are encouraged to strive for unity within the body of Christ.

God's Mercy and Restoration
Despite the severity of the conflict, the opportunity for peace and restoration reflects God's mercy. Christians should be agents of God's restorative work in the world.

The Role of Collective Action
The whole congregation's involvement in sending the message of peace highlights the power of collective action in achieving reconciliation and healing.

Learning from Past Mistakes
The events leading to the near destruction of Benjamin serve as a reminder to learn from past mistakes and seek God's guidance in resolving conflicts.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the Israelites' approach to reconciliation with the Benjamites, and how can we apply this in our personal conflicts today?

2. How does the concept of being a peacemaker, as taught by Jesus, relate to the actions of the Israelites in Judges 21:13?

3. In what ways can the church today work towards unity and reconciliation among its members, drawing lessons from the tribes of Israel?

4. How does the account of the Benjamites at the rock of Rimmon illustrate God's mercy and the possibility of restoration after conflict?

5. Reflect on a time when you witnessed or participated in a collective effort to resolve a conflict. What biblical principles were evident in that situation, and how did they contribute to the outcome?

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, contributing to the conflict in Judges.

Matthew 5:9
Jesus' teaching on peacemakers can be connected to the Israelites' attempt to make peace with the Benjamites, highlighting the importance of reconciliation.

Romans 12:18
Paul's exhortation to live at peace with everyone aligns with the Israelites' efforts to restore peace with Benjamin.