Old Testament
Judges 20:16
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Among all these troops were 700 elite left-handed warriors, each one able to sling a stone at a hair's width and never miss.
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Among all this people there were seven hundred chosen men lefthanded; every one could sling stones at an hair breadth, and not miss.
What Judges 20:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
Judges 20:16 highlights the exceptional skill of 700 left-handed warriors from the tribe of Benjamin. These men were not just ordinary fighters; they were elite troops known for their remarkable accuracy with slingshots. The phrase 'at a hair's width' emphasizes their precision, suggesting that they could hit a target as small as a single hair without missing. This detail illustrates the importance of specialized skills in warfare and the value of having unique talents within a community. The left-handedness of these warriors may also indicate a strategic advantage, as most people are right-handed, making their fighting style less predictable. This verse serves to remind us that diversity in abilities can strengthen a group, and that honing one's skills can lead to remarkable achievements in challenging situations.
How to apply Judges 20:16 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize and develop our unique skills, just as the left-handed warriors did. In our communities and workplaces, embracing diversity in talents can lead to greater success. We should strive to hone our abilities and appreciate the strengths of others, fostering teamwork and collaboration.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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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 20:16 mean?
Judges 20:16 describes 700 elite left-handed warriors from the tribe of Benjamin who were exceptionally skilled in using slingshots. Their ability to hit targets with incredible precision highlights the importance of specialized skills in warfare.
What is the significance of left-handedness in Judges 20:16?
The mention of left-handedness in Judges 20:16 suggests a strategic advantage, as most warriors were right-handed. This uniqueness may have made their fighting style less predictable and more effective in battle.
What does 'sling a stone at a hair's width' mean in Judges 20:16?
The phrase 'sling a stone at a hair's width' in Judges 20:16 emphasizes the remarkable accuracy of the warriors. It indicates that they could hit very small targets without missing, showcasing their exceptional skill.
How can we apply Judges 20:16 to our lives today?
Judges 20:16 encourages us to recognize and develop our unique skills, just like the left-handed warriors. Embracing diversity in talents can enhance teamwork and lead to greater success in our communities and workplaces.
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