Old Testament

Judges 20:47

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

But 600 men managed to escape. They fled into the wilderness to the rock of Rimmon, where they stayed for 4 months.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

But six hundred men turned and fled to the wilderness unto the rock Rimmon, and abode in the rock Rimmon four months.

What Judges 20:47 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In Judges 20:47, we learn about a significant moment in Israel's history where 600 men escaped from a devastating conflict. After a brutal civil war against the tribe of Benjamin, these men fled to a remote area known as the rock of Rimmon. This location provided them with a temporary refuge for four months, highlighting their desperation and the severity of the situation. The wilderness symbolizes both a physical and emotional escape from the chaos and violence they had experienced. Their retreat also indicates the breakdown of community and the dire consequences of internal strife within Israel. This passage serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and the tragic outcomes that can arise from division and conflict among people who are supposed to be united in faith and purpose.

How to apply Judges 20:47 to your life

This verse encourages us to seek refuge in times of turmoil. Just as the men found safety in the wilderness, we too can find solace in God during our struggles. It reminds us to prioritize unity and peace in our relationships, avoiding the destructive paths of conflict and division.

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.

A painting of Daniel and his three friends eating vegetables and drinking water in a Babylonian hall, while other young men eat the king's food and drink wine and the steward looks on

Illustrated scene from Daniel's story: Faithful at the King's Table (Daniel 1:1–21)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Daniel

A ruined stone tower with a doorway at Burj Beitin, lit by low evening sun under a cloudy sky.

Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. 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.

Bethel

Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.

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 Plans

Ask AI about Judges 20:47

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 20:47

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 20:47 mean?

Judges 20:47 describes how 600 men escaped to the rock of Rimmon after a civil war in Israel. This verse highlights their desperation and the severe consequences of conflict within the community.

What is the significance of the rock of Rimmon in Judges 20:47?

The rock of Rimmon served as a refuge for the 600 men fleeing violence, symbolizing a place of safety amidst chaos. It represents their need for protection and the breakdown of unity among the tribes of Israel.

How does Judges 20:47 relate to themes of conflict and refuge?

Judges 20:47 emphasizes the themes of conflict and refuge by showing how the men sought safety in a remote location after experiencing violence. It reflects the need for a safe haven during turbulent times.

What lessons can we learn from Judges 20:47?

From Judges 20:47, we learn the importance of seeking refuge during difficult times and the need to prioritize unity to avoid destructive conflict. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of division.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.