Judges 21:4

"They said, “The LORD, the God of Israel, why has this happened in Israel, that there should be one tribe lacking in Israel today?”"

Key Reflection

In Judges 21:4, the people of Israel are expressing their concern and disbelief over the absence of a tribe, likely referring to Benjamin, after the tragic civil war. This reflects a deep sense of community and identity among the tribes, as each tribe's presence was seen as essential for the unity and completeness of Israel. The original audience would have understood this as a significant threat to their collective existence and the fulfillment of God’s covenant with them.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

It is not certain whether the brass altar was at Bethel at this time, or whether it may not have been elsewhere, e. g., at Shiloh with the tabernacle. Some, however, think that the altar here mentioned was “additional” to the brass altar, in consequence of the unusual number of sacrifices caused by the presence of the whole congregation (compare1 Kings 8:64note).

More from Judges 21

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