Old Testament
Judges 20:25
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Benjamin came out from Gibeah to meet them again on the second day and slaughtered another 18,000 Israelite swordsmen.
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And Benjamin went forth against them out of Gibeah the second day, and destroyed down to the ground of the children of Israel again eighteen thousand men; all these drew the sword.
What Judges 20:25 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 20:25, the conflict between the tribe of Benjamin and the other Israelite tribes escalates. After suffering losses on the first day, the Israelites regroup and attack Benjamin again. However, Benjamin emerges victorious once more, killing an additional 18,000 Israelite soldiers. This verse highlights the intensity of the civil war among the Israelites and the tragic consequences of their internal strife. The repeated losses indicate a deepening division and the severity of the conflict, as well as the consequences of sin and disobedience to God. The Israelites were fighting against their own brothers, which underscores the gravity of their situation and the need for unity and reconciliation. This passage serves as a reminder of the destructive nature of conflict and the importance of seeking peace and resolution rather than allowing divisions to lead to further violence.
How to apply Judges 20:25 to your life
This verse reminds us of the dangers of internal conflict and division within communities. It encourages us to seek reconciliation and unity rather than allowing disagreements to escalate into destructive actions. We should strive to resolve conflicts peacefully and work towards understanding and cooperation.
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 20:25 mean?
Judges 20:25 describes the ongoing conflict between the tribe of Benjamin and the other Israelite tribes. Despite previous losses, Benjamin defeats the Israelites again, resulting in the death of 18,000 soldiers, highlighting the severity of their civil war.
What is the significance of the number 18,000 in Judges 20:25?
The number 18,000 represents the additional Israelite soldiers killed by Benjamin in the conflict. This figure underscores the scale of the tragedy and the devastating impact of the civil war on the Israelite community.
Why did the Israelites suffer losses in Judges 20:25?
The Israelites suffered losses in Judges 20:25 due to their internal divisions and the ongoing conflict with Benjamin. Their inability to unite against a common enemy led to further casualties and highlighted the destructive nature of their discord.
What themes are present in Judges 20:25?
Judges 20:25 presents themes of civil war, conflict, loss, division, and the consequences of sin. It serves as a reminder of the dangers of internal conflict and the importance of seeking unity and reconciliation.
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