Old Testament
Judges 21:12
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Among the people of Jabeshgilead, they found four hundred young women who had never slept with a man. They brought them to the camp at Shiloh, in the land of Canaan.
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And they found among the inhabitants of Jabeshgilead four hundred young virgins, that had known no man by lying with any male: and they brought them unto the camp to Shiloh, which is in the land of Canaan.
What Judges 21:12 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Israelites are searching for women to provide wives for the Benjamites after a civil conflict that left them with very few women. They discover four hundred young women from Jabeshgilead who have not been with any men. This situation arises from a vow made by the Israelites to not give their daughters to the Benjamites, leading to a desperate need for wives. The women are brought to Shiloh, a significant religious center, indicating the importance of this event in the context of Israel's history. The act of taking these women raises ethical questions about consent and the treatment of individuals in desperate situations. This moment highlights the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of conflict, as well as the lengths to which people will go to preserve their community and lineage.
How to apply Judges 21:12 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of ethical considerations in our actions, especially in times of crisis. We should strive to treat others with respect and dignity, ensuring that our decisions do not harm those who are vulnerable. Compassion should guide our choices.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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Keep studying Judges 21:12
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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 21:12 mean?
Judges 21:12 describes how the Israelites found four hundred young women from Jabeshgilead who had not been with any men. This was part of their effort to provide wives for the Benjamites after a civil conflict left them with very few women.
What is the significance of Jabeshgilead in Judges 21:12?
Jabeshgilead is significant in Judges 21:12 as it is the location where the Israelites found the young women to marry the Benjamites. The choice of this town highlights the desperate measures taken to ensure the continuation of the Benjamite tribe.
What ethical issues arise from Judges 21:12?
Judges 21:12 raises ethical issues regarding consent and the treatment of individuals in desperate situations. The act of taking women from Jabeshgilead for marriage without their consent reflects the complexities and moral dilemmas faced during times of crisis.
What does the term 'virgins' mean in Judges 21:12?
In Judges 21:12, the term 'virgins' refers to young women who have not had sexual relations with men. This designation was important for the Israelites in their search for wives for the Benjamites.
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