Old Testament
Judges 21:9
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A count of the people confirmed it — not a single person from Jabesh Gilead was there.
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For the people were numbered, and, behold, there were none of the inhabitants of Jabeshgilead there.
What Judges 21:9 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 21:9, the Israelites conducted a census to determine who was present after a conflict. They discovered that none of the people from Jabesh Gilead had come to the assembly. This absence was significant because it highlighted the isolation of Jabesh Gilead and raised questions about their loyalty or involvement in the events that had transpired. The Israelites were seeking to address a crisis, and the lack of participation from Jabesh Gilead indicated a potential divide among the tribes of Israel. This verse sets the stage for the subsequent actions taken by the Israelites to rectify the situation, emphasizing themes of unity and accountability within the community. The absence of Jabesh Gilead's inhabitants also foreshadows the drastic measures that would be taken to ensure the survival of the tribe of Benjamin, which was nearly wiped out due to internal conflict. Overall, this verse underscores the importance of community participation and the consequences of isolation in times of crisis.
How to apply Judges 21:9 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of being present and engaged in our communities. Just as the absence of Jabesh Gilead had significant consequences, our participation in communal matters can impact the well-being of those around us. We should strive to be active members of our communities, supporting one another in times of need.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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Related Bible verses
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 21:9 mean?
Judges 21:9 means that after a conflict, the Israelites found that no one from Jabesh Gilead attended their assembly, highlighting their absence and raising concerns about their loyalty and involvement in the situation.
What is the significance of Jabesh Gilead in Judges 21:9?
The significance of Jabesh Gilead in Judges 21:9 lies in their absence from the assembly, which indicates a potential divide among the tribes of Israel and foreshadows the drastic actions taken to support the tribe of Benjamin.
Why were the people from Jabesh Gilead absent in Judges 21:9?
The verse does not specify why the people from Jabesh Gilead were absent, but their lack of participation raises questions about their loyalty and involvement in the events affecting the Israelite community.
How does Judges 21:9 relate to community involvement?
Judges 21:9 illustrates the importance of community involvement, as the absence of Jabesh Gilead had significant consequences for the Israelites, reminding us that participation in communal matters is crucial for collective well-being.
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