Old Testament
Judges 20:31
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The Benjaminites rushed out to meet them and were drawn away from the city. They began striking down Israelites as before — killing about 30 men along the roads, one leading to the house of God and the other to Gibeah through the open country.
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And the children of Benjamin went out against the people, and were drawn away from the city; and they began to smite of the people, and kill, as at other times, in the highways, of which one goeth up to the house of God, and the other to Gibeah in the field, about thirty men of Israel.
What Judges 20:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Benjaminites engage in battle against the Israelites, luring them away from their city. This tactic is reminiscent of previous encounters where the Benjaminites had successfully ambushed the Israelites. As the fighting unfolds, about thirty Israelite men are killed on the roads leading to significant locations, including the house of God and Gibeah. This moment highlights the ongoing conflict and the strategic maneuvers employed by the Benjaminites, showcasing their fierce resistance and the tragic consequences of civil strife among the tribes of Israel. The mention of the roads leading to the house of God emphasizes the spiritual dimension of the conflict, as it occurs near a sacred site, suggesting that the battle is not just physical but also has implications for the faith and unity of the Israelite people.
How to apply Judges 20:31 to your life
This verse reminds us of the dangers of internal conflict and division within communities. It encourages us to seek unity and resolve disputes peacefully, recognizing that strife can lead to significant loss and suffering. We should strive to build bridges rather than walls among ourselves.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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Keep studying Judges 20:31
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 20:31 mean?
Judges 20:31 describes a battle where the Benjaminites lure the Israelites away from their city and kill about thirty men. This verse illustrates the ongoing conflict between the tribes of Israel and highlights the strategic tactics used in their civil war.
What is the significance of the roads mentioned in Judges 20:31?
The roads mentioned in Judges 20:31 lead to important locations, including the house of God and Gibeah. Their mention emphasizes the spiritual context of the conflict, suggesting that the battle has implications for the faith and unity of the Israelite people.
How does Judges 20:31 relate to the theme of conflict?
Judges 20:31 exemplifies the theme of conflict by showcasing the violent encounters between the Benjaminites and the Israelites. It highlights the destructive nature of civil strife and the loss of life that results from such divisions.
What lessons can we learn from Judges 20:31?
Judges 20:31 teaches about the dangers of internal conflict and the importance of unity within communities. It serves as a reminder that disputes can lead to significant loss and suffering, urging us to seek peaceful resolutions.
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