Judges 20:10
The Israelites, preparing for battle against the tribe of Benjamin, organize their forces by setting aside people to handle supplies. They declare, *“And we will take 10 men out of 100 throughout the tribes of Israel, and 100 out of 1,000, and 1,000 out of 10,000 to supply food for the people, that when they come to Gibeah of Benjamin, they may punish them for all the disgraceful acts that they have committed in Israel” (v.10).* Gibeah, located in the territory of Benjamin, sat a few miles north of what would later become Jerusalem. The events surrounding this conflict took place in the period of the Judges, approximately between 1380–1050 BC, when Israel had no king and the people were ruled by leaders called Judges.
By specifying the numbers of soldiers who would be assigned to provide provisions, this verse illustrates the community-wide effort necessary for the task. The phrase *“10 men out of 100 … 1,000 out of 10,000” (v.10)* emphasizes a fair distribution of responsibility. This was about justice and accountability to ensure sufficient resources while avoiding burdening just a few. It also spotlights the seriousness of the offense committed in Gibeah of Benjamin, which the entire nation of Israel believed required a decisive and unified response. Similar principles of addressing wrongdoing within a community can be seen in the New Testament’s call for believers to remain unified and deal with sin (NASB-95, 1 Corinthians 5).
The cities of Benjamin, especially Gibeah, play a significant role throughout the narrative of Judges. Here, the Israelites feel compelled to take action against immoral behavior within their own nation. *“They may punish them for all the disgraceful acts …” (v.10)* underscores the importance of cleansing wrongdoing from their midst. In this era before the monarchy, the tribes were expected to function together in obedience to God’s covenant, emphasizing that no tribe or individual was exempt from judgment if they violated God’s standards.
This verse highlights how Israel unified its resources to address grievous sin within its own community.
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Deuteronomy 20:10-18 meaning. Moses prescribed regulations concerning how the Israelites are to conduct themselves in war against adversaries that are either far or near.
- Genesis 10:15-20 meaning. Canaan was the father of eleven sons. The land of the Canaanites was called Canaan which later was conquered by the Jews. Ham had a total of 30 descendants.
- Judges 3:15-25 meaning. In response to Israel’s cry for help, God raises up Ehud, a Benjamite, as a deliverer. Using a clever and daring strategy, Ehud assassinates Eglon, the oppressive king of Moab, motivating Israel’s return to the Lord.