Old Testament
Judges 20:38
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Judges 20:38, the Israelites devised a strategic plan to defeat their enemies.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel
- Written
- Around 1050-1000 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites living under the judges
The Israelites and the ambush force had arranged a signal: they would make a great flame with smoke rise up from the city.
Now there was an appointed sign between the men of Israel and the liers in wait, that they should make a great flame with smoke rise up out of the city.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 20:38, the Israelites devised a strategic plan to defeat their enemies. They coordinated a signal with their ambush troops, which involved creating a large flame that would produce a noticeable smoke rising from the city. This signal was crucial for the ambush to be effective, as it would indicate the right moment for the troops to attack. The use of smoke as a signal highlights the importance of communication and planning in warfare. The Israelites were not relying solely on brute strength; they were employing tactics to outsmart their opponents. This verse illustrates the significance of teamwork and strategy in achieving a common goal, especially in challenging situations. It also reflects the broader theme of divine guidance and intervention in battles, as the Israelites sought to follow God's direction in their conflict.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Judges 20:38 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of planning and communication in our endeavors. Just as the Israelites coordinated their efforts for success, we should work together with others, ensuring everyone is on the same page. Effective teamwork can lead to achieving our goals more efficiently.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Judges 20:38 mean?
Judges 20:38 describes a strategic plan by the Israelites to signal their ambush troops with a large flame and smoke from the city. This coordinated signal was essential for timing their attack effectively against their enemies.
What is the significance of smoke in Judges 20:38?
In Judges 20:38, smoke serves as a visual signal for the ambush troops, indicating the right moment to launch their attack. This highlights the importance of communication and strategy in achieving military success.
How does Judges 20:38 illustrate teamwork?
Judges 20:38 illustrates teamwork by showing how the Israelites coordinated their efforts with the ambush troops through a specific signal. This collaboration was crucial for their success in battle.
What can we learn from Judges 20:38 regarding planning?
Judges 20:38 teaches the importance of planning and communication in achieving goals. Just as the Israelites worked together to execute their strategy, we should ensure clear communication in our own collaborative efforts.
The Book of Judges
Judges 1–2: Incomplete Conquest and the Cycle of Sin
After the death of Joshua, the tribes of Israel inquire of the Lord who should first go up to fight the remaining Canaanites. Judah is chosen and, with the help of the tribe of Simeon, achieves several victories, but fails to drive out the inhabitants of the coastal plain because they have iron chariots. The book then details the failures of the other tribes—Benjamin, Manasseh, Ephraim, Zebulun, Asher, and Naphtali—to completely dispossess the Canaanites from their allotted territories. Instead of driving them out, the Israelites put them to forced labor, allowing pagan influences to remain in the land. An angel of the Lord appears at Bochim and rebukes the people for breaking their covenant with God by making treaties with the inhabitants of the land. The people weep and offer sacrifices, but the pattern of disobedience is set.
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