Old Testament
Judges 21:22
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When their fathers or brothers come to us to complain, we will say to them, 'Please be favorable to them for our sakes, because we did not reserve a wife for each man during the war. You did not give your daughters to them at this time, so you are not guilty.'
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And it shall be, when their fathers or their brethren come unto us to complain, that we will say unto them, Be favourable unto them for our sakes: because we reserved not to each man his wife in the war: for ye did not give unto them at this time, that ye should be guilty.
What Judges 21:22 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Israelites are addressing a situation where they need to justify their actions regarding the lack of wives for the men who fought in the war. They plan to explain to the fathers or brothers of the women that they did not provide wives for their men during the conflict. The reasoning is that since the families did not offer their daughters to marry the soldiers, they are not at fault for the situation. This reflects a cultural practice of seeking favor and understanding in difficult circumstances, emphasizing the importance of community and familial ties in resolving conflicts. The Israelites are trying to navigate a delicate situation where they need to maintain peace and ensure that the men have wives, while also acknowledging the role of the families in this matter. This highlights the complexities of relationships and responsibilities within the community, especially in times of war and strife.
How to apply Judges 21:22 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of communication and understanding in resolving conflicts. When faced with difficult situations, it is vital to explain our actions clearly and seek favor from others, fostering harmony and cooperation within our communities.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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Related topics
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 21:22 mean?
Judges 21:22 explains how the Israelites planned to justify their actions regarding the lack of wives for their soldiers. They intended to tell the families of the women that they were not at fault since the families did not offer their daughters for marriage during the war.
What is the significance of community in Judges 21:22?
The verse highlights the importance of community and familial ties in resolving conflicts. It shows how the Israelites sought to maintain peace by communicating their reasoning to the families affected by their decisions.
What does the phrase 'be favorable unto them for our sakes' mean in Judges 21:22?
The phrase means that the Israelites were asking the families to show understanding and kindness towards the soldiers who lacked wives, emphasizing the need for cooperation and support in difficult situations.
How does Judges 21:22 relate to marriage customs?
The verse illustrates the cultural practice of arranging marriages and the responsibilities that come with it, particularly in the context of war, where the lack of wives for soldiers became a pressing issue.
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