Old Testament
Judges 5:23
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'Curse Meroz!' said the angel of the LORD. 'Curse its people bitterly, because they did not come to help the LORD — to help the LORD against the mighty.'
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Curse ye Meroz, said the angel of the LORD, curse ye bitterly the inhabitants thereof; because they came not to the help of the LORD, to the help of the LORD against the mighty.
What Judges 5:23 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 5:23, the angel of the LORD pronounces a curse on the city of Meroz for its inhabitants' failure to assist in a crucial battle against powerful enemies. This verse highlights the importance of taking action in support of God's purposes. The people of Meroz are criticized for their inaction during a time when their help was needed to secure victory for Israel. The curse signifies that neglecting to support God's work can lead to serious consequences. This passage serves as a reminder that faith is not just about belief but also about actively participating in God's mission. The inhabitants of Meroz missed an opportunity to stand with their fellow Israelites and support God's plan, which resulted in their condemnation. This verse encourages believers to be proactive in their faith and to respond to God's call to action, especially in times of need.
How to apply Judges 5:23 to your life
This verse challenges us to consider how we respond to God's call in our lives. Are we willing to step up and support others in their time of need? It encourages us to actively participate in our communities and to help fulfill God's purposes, rather than remaining passive.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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Illustrated scene from Deborah's story: The Song of Deborah (Judges 5:1–31)
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Deborah
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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Keep studying Judges 5:23
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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 5:23 mean?
Judges 5:23 conveys a message from the angel of the LORD, cursing the city of Meroz for not aiding Israel in battle. It emphasizes the importance of taking action to support God's purposes, highlighting that inaction during critical times can lead to severe consequences.
What is the significance of Meroz in Judges 5:23?
Meroz is significant in Judges 5:23 as it represents those who failed to assist in a crucial battle against powerful enemies. The curse on its inhabitants serves as a warning about the dangers of neglecting to support God's mission when called upon.
What does the curse in Judges 5:23 imply?
The curse in Judges 5:23 implies that failing to act in support of God's work can lead to condemnation. It serves as a reminder that faith requires active participation, especially in times of need.
How does Judges 5:23 relate to community responsibility?
Judges 5:23 highlights community responsibility by showing that individuals are called to support one another in fulfilling God's purposes. The inhabitants of Meroz are criticized for their inaction, reminding us that we should actively help others when needed.
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