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Judges 21:7 Meaning & Commentary

How shall we do for wives for them that remain, seeing we have sworn by the LORD that we will not give them of our daughters to wives?

Judges 21:7, King James Version

Introduction

In the aftermath of a civil war within the tribes of Israel, a profound moral and logistical problem surfaces. Judges 21:7 captures the distress of the Israelites as they grapple with the consequences of their own actions. This verse invites us to consider the weight of vows and the complexities of justice and compassion.

Historical Context

The Book of Judges is set in a turbulent period of Israelite history between Joshua’s leadership and the establishment of the monarchy. This specific verse is part of a narrative where the Israelites have nearly annihilated the tribe of Benjamin due to a grievous crime. The remaining tribes face the dilemma of preserving the tribe of Benjamin while adhering to an oath made before God.

Key Word Analysis

Wives: In ancient Israel, marriage was essential for the continuation of a tribe.
Sworn: Indicates a solemn promise made before God, binding and serious.
By the LORD: Emphasizes the invocation of divine authority in their oath.
Daughters: Represents the potential loss of lineage and heritage.

Spiritual Insight

This verse reveals the tension between legalism and grace. It underscores the challenge of adhering strictly to vows made before God while navigating the compassionate solutions needed for human crises.

Life Application

Modern readers can learn from this verse the importance of balancing justice with mercy. We are reminded to consider the broader implications of our commitments and the necessity for compassion in resolving conflicts.

What Jesus Might Say About This Verse

A devotional reflection written in the voice of Jesus. These are not words quoted from Scripture.

Beloved, in times of difficult decisions and seemingly insurmountable dilemmas, remember that I am your guide. Seek My wisdom and let grace temper your judgment. I am with you always, ready to provide clarity and peace.

Prayer Prompt

Heavenly Father, grant us wisdom in our decisions and compassion in our actions. Help us navigate the complexities of life with grace and mercy, just as You have shown us. Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the oath taken by the Israelites?

The Israelites swore not to give their daughters in marriage to the tribe of Benjamin, highlighting their commitment to uphold justice after the civil conflict.

Why was this oath a problem?

The oath created a dilemma because without wives, the tribe of Benjamin faced extinction, which contradicted the Israelites' desire to preserve the twelve tribes of Israel.

What lesson can we learn from this verse?

This verse teaches the importance of considering the consequences of our vows and the need to balance justice with compassion.

How does this verse relate to the character of God?

This verse reflects God's desire for justice tempered with mercy, illustrating the complexities of human decisions and divine guidance.

Judges 21:2: And the people came to the house of God, and abode there till even before God, and lifted up their voices, and wept sore.

Judges 20:48: And the men of Israel turned again upon the children of Benjamin, and smote them with the edge of the sword, as well the men of every city, as the beast, and all that came to hand: also they set on fire all the cities that they came to.

Judges 21:15: And the people repented them for Benjamin, because that the LORD had made a breach in the tribes of Israel.

Judges 21:18: Howbeit we may not give them wives of our daughters: for the children of Israel have sworn, saying, Cursed be he that giveth a wife to Benjamin.

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