Judges 21:15

The people grieved for Benjamin, because the LORD had made a void in the tribes of Israel.

Study Bible

The people grieved for Benjamin
The Israelites mourned for the tribe of Benjamin, recognizing the near extinction of one of their own tribes. This grief reflects the deep familial and covenantal bonds within the twelve tribes of Israel. Historically, the tribe of Benjamin was nearly annihilated due to a civil war sparked by the grievous sin in Gibeah (Judges 19-20). The mourning indicates a realization of the severity of their actions and the loss of a brotherly tribe. This grief can be compared to the mourning over lost unity and fellowship within the body of Christ, as seen in 1 Corinthians 12:26, where if one part suffers, every part suffers with it.

because the LORD had made a void in the tribes of Israel
The phrase acknowledges divine sovereignty in the events that transpired. The "void" or gap in the tribes signifies the absence of Benjamin, highlighting the consequences of sin and disobedience. This void serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and the dangers of internal strife. Theologically, it underscores the belief that God allows certain events to unfold as a means of discipline or to fulfill His purposes, as seen in Romans 8:28. The void also foreshadows the need for restoration and reconciliation, themes central to the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, who came to restore what was lost and to reconcile humanity to God (2 Corinthians 5:18-19).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The collective tribes of Israel who had gathered to address the issue of the tribe of Benjamin after the civil war.

2. The Tribe of Benjamin
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, nearly annihilated due to the conflict arising from the incident at Gibeah.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who is acknowledged as having allowed the void or gap in the tribes.

4. Mizpah
The place where the Israelites had gathered to discuss the fate of Benjamin and seek a solution.

5. The Civil War
The conflict between the tribe of Benjamin and the other Israelite tribes, resulting in significant loss and the near extinction of Benjamin.

Teaching Points

Grief and Compassion
The Israelites' grief for Benjamin highlights the importance of compassion and empathy, even towards those who have erred. We are called to mourn with those who mourn and seek restoration.

Divine Sovereignty
The acknowledgment that "the LORD had made a void" reminds us of God's sovereignty. Even in judgment, God has a purpose and plan for restoration.

Community Responsibility
The Israelites' collective response to the crisis shows the importance of community responsibility. We are accountable for one another's well-being and must work towards healing and unity.

Repentance and Restoration
The situation with Benjamin underscores the need for repentance and the hope of restoration. God desires to restore what is broken when we turn back to Him.

Hope in Desolation
Despite the void, there is hope. God's plans are redemptive, and He can bring life and purpose out of desolation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the grief of the Israelites for Benjamin reflect the heart of God towards those who have fallen?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in difficult situations in our own lives?

3. How can we, as a community of believers, take responsibility for restoring those who have been marginalized or hurt?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that our actions align with God's desire for repentance and restoration?

5. How can the account of Benjamin encourage us to find hope and purpose in times of personal or communal desolation?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 49
Jacob's blessings and prophecies over his sons, including Benjamin, provide context for the tribe's characteristics and future.

1 Samuel 9
The rise of Saul, a Benjamite, as the first king of Israel, showing God's continued purpose for the tribe.

Romans 11
Paul's discussion on the remnant of Israel, illustrating God's faithfulness to His people despite their failures.

Psalm 34
The LORD's nearness to the brokenhearted, offering comfort in times of grief and loss.

Hosea 6
A call to return to the LORD, emphasizing repentance and restoration.