The term "80 men" is a reference found in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Jeremiah. This group of men is mentioned in the context of the events following the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 586 B.C. The narrative provides insight into the religious practices and the socio-political climate of the time.

Biblical Reference:

The account of the 80 men is found in Jeremiah 41:5. The passage describes a group of men who came from Shechem, Shiloh, and Samaria. These men were on their way to the house of the LORD in Jerusalem, carrying offerings. The verse reads:

"eighty men who had shaved off their beards, torn their clothes, and cut themselves, bringing grain offerings and incense in their hands to present at the house of the LORD." (Jeremiah 41:5)

Context and Significance:

1. Historical Context:
· The event takes place after the fall of Jerusalem, during the governorship of Gedaliah, who was appointed by the Babylonians to oversee the remnant in Judah. This period was marked by political instability and social upheaval.

2. Religious Practices:
· The actions of the 80 men—shaving their beards, tearing their clothes, and cutting themselves—are indicative of mourning and penitence. These were common expressions of grief and lamentation in ancient Near Eastern cultures.
· Their journey to the house of the LORD with grain offerings and incense suggests a continued devotion to Yahweh and adherence to religious rituals, despite the destruction of the temple.

3. The Incident with Ishmael:
· The narrative continues with Ishmael son of Nethaniah, who was of royal blood and had been one of the king's officers, meeting these men. Ishmael, who had previously assassinated Gedaliah, lured the 80 men into Mizpah and killed them, casting their bodies into a cistern (Jeremiah 41:6-9).
· This act of treachery highlights the chaotic and violent nature of the period, as well as the internal conflicts among the people left in Judah.

4. Symbolic Interpretation:
· The number 80 may hold symbolic significance, representing a substantial group of people committed to maintaining religious observance despite the national crisis.
· The incident underscores the themes of betrayal and the struggle for power that permeate the narrative of Judah's last days before the exile.

Cultural and Theological Insights:

· The account of the 80 men reflects the resilience of faith practices even in the face of national disaster. It illustrates the tension between maintaining religious identity and navigating political turmoil.
· The actions of Ishmael and the fate of the 80 men serve as a somber reminder of the consequences of internal strife and the breakdown of social order.

This account, while brief, provides a poignant glimpse into the lives of those who remained in Judah after the Babylonian conquest, highlighting their attempts to preserve their religious traditions amidst adversity.