Old Testament
Judges 21:14
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The men of Benjamin returned, and the Israelites gave them the women they had spared from Jabesh Gilead. But there still weren't enough wives for all of them.
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And Benjamin came again at that time; and they gave them wives which they had saved alive of the women of Jabeshgilead: and yet so they sufficed them not.
What Judges 21:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the men of the tribe of Benjamin are given women from Jabesh Gilead to marry, as they had lost many of their own during a civil conflict. The Israelites had previously vowed not to give their daughters to the Benjamites, but they found a way to help them by providing these spared women. However, despite this effort, there were still not enough women to marry all the men of Benjamin, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by this tribe after the war. This situation reflects the complexities of loyalty, survival, and the consequences of conflict within the Israelite community.
How to apply Judges 21:14 to your life
This verse teaches us about the importance of community support in times of crisis. Just as the Israelites sought to restore the tribe of Benjamin, we should look for ways to help those in need around us, fostering unity and healing in our communities.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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Keep studying Judges 21:14
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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 is the significance of Judges 21:14 in the context of the tribe of Benjamin?
Judges 21:14 highlights the efforts of the Israelites to support the tribe of Benjamin after a devastating civil war. The men of Benjamin had lost many of their wives, and the Israelites, despite their vow not to give their daughters to them, provided women from Jabesh Gilead to help restore the tribe. This act reflects themes of community support and the complexities of loyalty during times of crisis.
Why did the Israelites vow not to give their daughters to the Benjamites?
The Israelites vowed not to give their daughters to the Benjamites due to the violent conflict that arose from the incident at Gibeah, where a Levite's concubine was abused and killed. This led to a civil war against Benjamin, resulting in significant loss of life and prompting the vow as a means of punishment and separation from the tribe that had committed such atrocities.
What does this verse teach about community and support?
Judges 21:14 teaches the importance of community support during difficult times. The Israelites' decision to provide wives to the Benjamites illustrates a commitment to restoration and healing within their community. It encourages us to look for ways to support those in need, fostering unity and resilience in the face of challenges.
How does this verse relate to the themes of conflict resolution and restoration?
This verse encapsulates the themes of conflict resolution and restoration by showing how the Israelites sought to mend the rift caused by civil war. By providing women from Jabesh Gilead to the Benjamites, they attempted to restore the tribe's identity and continuity, emphasizing the need for reconciliation and healing after conflict.
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