Old Testament
Judges 17:2
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, a son confesses to his mother that he stole 1,100 shekels of silver from her, which she had previously cursed.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel
- Written
- Around 1050-1000 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites living under the judges
He told his mother, "Remember the 1,100 shekels of silver that were stolen from you? You pronounced a curse about it, and I heard you say it. Well, I'm the one who took it — I have the silver." His mother replied, "May the LORD bless you, my son!"
And he said unto his mother, The eleven hundred shekels of silver that were taken from thee, about which thou cursedst, and spakest of also in mine ears, behold, the silver is with me; I took it. And his mother said, Blessed be thou of the LORD, my son.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a son confesses to his mother that he stole 1,100 shekels of silver from her, which she had previously cursed. He acknowledges hearing her curse and reveals that he is the thief. Instead of being angry, the mother responds with a blessing, saying, "May the LORD bless you, my son!" This interaction highlights the complexities of familial relationships, where love and forgiveness can sometimes overshadow wrongdoing. The mother's immediate blessing suggests a deep bond and perhaps a desire to restore peace in their relationship. It also raises questions about accountability and the nature of repentance, as the son admits his guilt but is met with grace rather than punishment. This moment serves as a reminder of the importance of honesty and the power of forgiveness within families, even when faced with betrayal. Explore related confession.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Judges 17:2 to your life
This verse encourages us to be honest about our mistakes and to seek forgiveness from those we have wronged. It also reminds us of the importance of responding to wrongdoing with grace and love, fostering healing in our relationships.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Judges 17:2 mean?
Judges 17:2 describes a son confessing to his mother that he stole 1,100 shekels of silver from her. Instead of reacting with anger, she blesses him, highlighting themes of honesty, forgiveness, and the complexities of family relationships.
What is the significance of the mother's blessing in Judges 17:2?
The mother's blessing in Judges 17:2 signifies her love and desire to restore peace despite her son's wrongdoing. It emphasizes the power of forgiveness and the importance of maintaining familial bonds even in difficult situations.
What does the phrase 'I took it' in Judges 17:2 indicate?
The phrase 'I took it' in Judges 17:2 indicates the son's admission of guilt regarding the theft of the silver. This confession is a crucial moment that opens the door for dialogue and potential reconciliation with his mother.
How does Judges 17:2 relate to themes of accountability?
Judges 17:2 illustrates accountability through the son's confession of his theft. While he admits his wrongdoing, the mother's response suggests that accountability can coexist with grace and forgiveness in family dynamics.
The Book of Judges
Judges 1–2: Incomplete Conquest and the Cycle of Sin
After the death of Joshua, the tribes of Israel inquire of the Lord who should first go up to fight the remaining Canaanites. Judah is chosen and, with the help of the tribe of Simeon, achieves several victories, but fails to drive out the inhabitants of the coastal plain because they have iron chariots. The book then details the failures of the other tribes—Benjamin, Manasseh, Ephraim, Zebulun, Asher, and Naphtali—to completely dispossess the Canaanites from their allotted territories. Instead of driving them out, the Israelites put them to forced labor, allowing pagan influences to remain in the land. An angel of the Lord appears at Bochim and rebukes the people for breaking their covenant with God by making treaties with the inhabitants of the land. The people weep and offer sacrifices, but the pattern of disobedience is set.
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