Old Testament
Judges 21:11
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Here's exactly what you must do: kill every man and every woman who has slept with a man."
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And this is the thing that ye shall do, Ye shall utterly destroy every male, and every woman that hath lain by man.
What Judges 21:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 21:11, the Israelites are given a command to eliminate all the men and women who have been involved with men from a specific group. This directive comes after a troubling event where the tribe of Benjamin faced severe consequences for their actions. The command reflects the seriousness of sin and the need for purification within the community. It highlights the extreme measures taken to address moral corruption and maintain the holiness of the Israelite nation. This passage can be difficult to understand in a modern context, as it involves violence and judgment. However, it serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to God's standards and the consequences of turning away from them. The focus is on the need for accountability and the protection of the community from influences that could lead them astray.
How to apply Judges 21:11 to your life
This verse challenges us to consider the seriousness of our actions and their impact on our community. It encourages self-reflection on our moral choices and the importance of maintaining integrity within our relationships. We should strive to uphold values that align with our beliefs and support one another in doing so.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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Keep studying Judges 21:11
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Key themes
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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 21:11 mean?
Judges 21:11 conveys a command given to the Israelites to eliminate all men and women from a specific group who had been involved with men. This directive emphasizes the seriousness of sin and the need for purification within the community after a troubling event involving the tribe of Benjamin.
What is the context of Judges 21:11?
The context of Judges 21:11 involves the aftermath of a civil conflict where the tribe of Benjamin faced severe consequences for their actions. The command to destroy those who had been involved with men reflects the Israelites' efforts to address moral corruption and restore holiness to their community.
Why is Judges 21:11 difficult to understand?
Judges 21:11 can be difficult to understand due to its violent nature and the harsh judgment it prescribes. In a modern context, the idea of such extreme measures raises questions about morality and justice, making it challenging to reconcile with contemporary values.
What themes are present in Judges 21:11?
Judges 21:11 highlights themes such as judgment, purification, community accountability, and the consequences of sin. It underscores the importance of adhering to divine commands and the lengths to which the Israelites went to protect their community from moral decay.
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