Judges 20:25

In the midst of the ongoing conflict between the tribes of Israel and the tribe of Benjamin, the narrative states that *“Benjamin went out against them from Gibeah the second day and struck to the ground again 18,000 men of the sons of Israel; all these drew the sword”* (v.25). The city of Gibeah was a Benjaminite stronghold located a few miles north of Jerusalem, situated in rugged terrain that offered the defending tribe a military advantage. This verse emphasizes that on the second day of battle, the Benjamites once again won a decisive victory, demonstrating their considerable skill and fierce resolve.

It is important to note that the tribe of Benjamin descended from Jacob’s youngest son, Benjamin, who was born around 1915 BC. Historically, the events of the Book of Judges occurred during a time in Israel’s history spanning approximately 1375–1050 BC, after the conquest of the Promised Land and before Israel’s first king. Here, *“Benjamin went out against them from Gibeah”* (v.25) confirms how this tribe, despite being smaller than some others, managed to withstand the larger forces of the rest of Israel. The violence and high casualties echo themes seen elsewhere in Scripture, where strife among God’s people highlights the tragic consequences of disunity (James 4:1 NASB-95). These conflicts would eventually prompt Israel to desire a unifying monarch, foreshadowing the later establishment of a kingdom that ultimately pointed to the greater kingship of Jesus Christ (Luke 1:32-33 NASB-95).

The phrase *“struck to the ground again 18,000 men of the sons of Israel; all these drew the sword”* (v.25) underscores the severity of the defeat. Israel’s forces, though presumably more numerous, were beaten back with heavy losses. The continuation of fighting despite prior defeats illustrates Israel’s determination but also showcases the deep divisions and moral confusion within the nation during the period of the Judges. These internal struggles anticipate the longing for righteous leadership that would bring peace—leadership that is perfectly fulfilled in Jesus, who reconciles humanity to God and calls for unity in Him (Ephesians 2:14 NASB-95).

Benjamin’s second victory again shows the destructive power of internal conflict within the people of God.