Old Testament
Judges 18:2
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
So the people of Dan chose 5 brave warriors from their clan — men from Zorah and Eshtaol — and sent them out to scout the land. "Go explore the territory," they told them. The men traveled to the hill country of Ephraim and spent the night at Micah's house.
Compare translations
And the children of Dan sent of their family five men from their coasts, men of valour, from Zorah, and from Eshtaol, to spy out the land, and to search it; and they said unto them, Go, search the land: who when they came to mount Ephraim, to the house of Micah, they lodged there.
What Judges 18:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 18:2, the tribe of Dan is seeking to expand their territory. They send five courageous men from their clan, specifically from the towns of Zorah and Eshtaol, to scout out new land. This shows their initiative and desire to find a suitable place to settle. The men are tasked with exploring the area and are instructed to search for a location that would be beneficial for their tribe. Their journey takes them to the hill country of Ephraim, where they stop at the house of a man named Micah for the night. This verse highlights the importance of planning and taking action in pursuit of goals, as well as the significance of community and collaboration in decision-making. The actions of the Danites reflect a proactive approach to their challenges, emphasizing the need for courage and teamwork in overcoming obstacles.
How to apply Judges 18:2 to your life
This passage encourages us to take initiative in our own lives. Just as the Danites sought to explore new opportunities, we should be proactive in pursuing our goals. It reminds us of the importance of teamwork and courage when facing challenges, and the value of seeking guidance and support from others.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Judges 18:2
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Judges 18:2
Related Bible verses
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 18:2 mean?
Judges 18:2 describes how the tribe of Dan sent five brave men to scout new territory for settlement. This reflects their desire to expand and find a suitable place to live.
What is the significance of the men from Zorah and Eshtaol in Judges 18:2?
The men from Zorah and Eshtaol represent the tribe of Dan's initiative and courage in seeking new opportunities. Their selection highlights the importance of having brave and capable individuals in community decisions.
What themes are present in Judges 18:2?
Judges 18:2 includes themes of courage, exploration, community, initiative, and territorial expansion, highlighting the proactive nature of the Danites in seeking new opportunities.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.