Old Testament
Judges 18:14
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The 5 men who had scouted the territory of Laish spoke up and told their fellow warriors, "Did you know that inside these buildings there's an ephod, household idols, a carved image, and a metal idol? Think about what we should do."
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Then answered the five men that went to spy out the country of Laish, and said unto their brethren, Do ye know that there is in these houses an ephod, and teraphim, and a graven image, and a molten image? now therefore consider what ye have to do.
What Judges 18:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 18:14, five men who had explored the area of Laish reported back to their group about the religious artifacts they found in the city. They mentioned an ephod, which was a priestly garment, along with household idols and images made of metal. This discovery was significant because it indicated that the people of Laish practiced idolatry, which was contrary to the worship of Yahweh. The men urged their fellow warriors to consider their next steps, suggesting that the presence of these idols could be an opportunity for them to take action. This moment highlights the tension between the Israelites' faith and the surrounding cultures that worshipped false gods. It also sets the stage for the decisions the Israelites would make regarding their conquest and the influence of idolatry on their community.
How to apply Judges 18:14 to your life
This verse reminds us to be aware of the influences around us, especially those that may lead us away from our values. Just as the scouts reported their findings, we should evaluate our surroundings and make choices that align with our beliefs and principles.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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Keep studying Judges 18:14
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At a Glance — the Book of Judges
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel
- Written
- Around 1050-1000 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites living under the judges
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Judges 18:14 mean?
Judges 18:14 describes five men who reported to their group about finding religious artifacts in Laish, including an ephod and idols. This discovery highlighted the idolatry of the Laishites, prompting the Israelites to consider their response to this influence.
What is the significance of the ephod in Judges 18:14?
The ephod mentioned in Judges 18:14 was a priestly garment used in worship, indicating the religious practices of the people in Laish. Its presence, alongside idols, signified a departure from the worship of Yahweh and raised concerns for the Israelites.
What does the term 'teraphim' mean in Judges 18:14?
In Judges 18:14, 'teraphim' refers to household idols or images used in worship, often associated with divination or protection. Their presence in Laish indicated the people's idolatrous practices.
How does Judges 18:14 relate to decision-making?
Judges 18:14 illustrates the importance of evaluating one's surroundings and the influences present. The scouts' report prompted their group to consider their next actions in light of the idolatry they discovered.
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