Judges 21:4

The next day the people got up early, built an altar there, and presented burnt offerings and peace offerings.

Study Bible

The next day
This phrase indicates a continuation of the narrative from the previous chapter, emphasizing the immediacy and urgency of the actions taken by the Israelites. In the context of ancient Israel, the timing of events often held significant meaning, reflecting obedience and responsiveness to God's will. The Israelites' early rising suggests a collective determination to seek reconciliation and divine favor after the civil strife described in the preceding chapters.

the people
Referring to the Israelites, this collective term underscores the unity and communal responsibility of the nation. In the Hebrew context, "the people" often signifies not just a group of individuals but a covenant community bound by shared faith and purpose. This communal identity is crucial in understanding the actions and decisions made in the narrative, as they reflect a collective desire to restore harmony and fulfill their covenant obligations.

got up early
This phrase highlights the diligence and earnestness of the Israelites in addressing their spiritual and communal needs. Rising early is a recurring motif in the Bible, often associated with devotion, readiness, and the pursuit of righteousness. It reflects a proactive approach to seeking God's guidance and favor, demonstrating the people's commitment to rectifying their previous actions and restoring their relationship with God.

built an altar there
The construction of an altar signifies a return to worship and a desire to reestablish a connection with God. In ancient Israel, altars were central to religious life, serving as places of sacrifice and communion with the divine. The act of building an altar indicates repentance and a renewed commitment to the covenant, as altars were often erected at significant moments of spiritual renewal or covenant reaffirmation.

and presented burnt offerings
Burnt offerings, or "olah" in Hebrew, were sacrifices wholly consumed by fire, symbolizing complete surrender and devotion to God. This act of offering reflects the Israelites' acknowledgment of their need for atonement and their desire to seek God's forgiveness. Burnt offerings were a means of expressing total dedication and were integral to the worship practices of ancient Israel, signifying a heart fully turned towards God.

and peace offerings
Peace offerings, known as "shelamim" in Hebrew, were sacrifices that symbolized fellowship and thanksgiving. Unlike burnt offerings, peace offerings were shared between the offerer, the priests, and God, representing reconciliation and restored relationships. By presenting peace offerings, the Israelites sought to mend their communal bonds and express gratitude for God's mercy and provision. This act underscores the importance of peace and unity within the covenant community, reflecting a holistic approach to worship that encompasses both divine and human relationships.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The collective group of the twelve tribes of Israel, who are dealing with the aftermath of a civil war against the tribe of Benjamin.

2. The Altar
A structure built by the Israelites as a place of worship and sacrifice to God, signifying repentance and seeking divine guidance.

3. Burnt Offerings
Sacrifices that were completely consumed by fire, symbolizing atonement and dedication to God.

4. Peace Offerings
Sacrifices that were shared between the altar, the priests, and the offerer, symbolizing fellowship and thanksgiving to God.

5. Mizpah
The location where the Israelites gathered, which served as a significant place for assembly and decision-making.

Teaching Points

Repentance and Restoration
The Israelites' actions demonstrate the importance of repentance and seeking restoration with God after sin and conflict. We, too, must prioritize repentance in our spiritual lives.

The Role of Sacrifice
Sacrifices in the Old Testament were a means of atonement and fellowship with God. Today, we are called to offer spiritual sacrifices through our lives and actions.

Community and Worship
The gathering of the Israelites at Mizpah underscores the importance of communal worship and decision-making in the life of believers.

Seeking Divine Guidance
Building an altar and offering sacrifices was a way for the Israelites to seek God’s guidance. We should also seek God’s direction through prayer and scripture.

Peace and Fellowship
The peace offerings symbolize the importance of maintaining peace and fellowship with God and others, a principle that remains vital for Christians today.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the building of an altar and offering sacrifices reveal about the Israelites' relationship with God at this point in their history?

2. How do the concepts of burnt offerings and peace offerings in Judges 21:4 relate to the New Testament understanding of sacrifice and worship?

3. In what ways can we, as modern believers, build "altars" in our lives to seek God’s presence and guidance?

4. How does the communal aspect of the Israelites' worship at Mizpah inform our understanding of the importance of community in the church today?

5. Reflect on a time when you sought peace and restoration in a relationship. How can the principles of peace offerings guide us in maintaining harmony with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 1 & 3
These chapters provide detailed instructions on burnt offerings and peace offerings, highlighting their significance in the Israelite sacrificial system.

1 Samuel 7:5-9
Samuel calls Israel to Mizpah for repentance and offering sacrifices, showing a pattern of seeking God’s favor through sacrifice.

Romans 12:1
Paul urges believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the concept of dedication and worship seen in the Old Testament sacrifices.