Judges 21:10
In Judges 21:10, we read, *“And the congregation sent 12,000 of the valiant warriors there, and commanded them, saying, ‘Go and strike the inhabitants of Jabesh-gilead with the edge of the sword, with the women and the little ones.’” (v.10)*. This verse describes a drastic measure undertaken by the unified assembly of Israel—often called “the congregation”—who at this point in history were grappling with the fallout of the near-extinction of the tribe of Benjamin. The strong wording, *“Go and strike the inhabitants … with the edge of the sword” (v.10)*, shows the severity of the action they were prepared to take. It indicates that the nation was in a time of deep moral confusion and societal chaos, as the final chapters of Judges often emphasize: “In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes” (Judges 21:25 NASB-95, supporting verse not italicized). The people’s decision here arises from that same unstable period, demonstrating how far they had strayed from earlier ideals of unity and righteousness under God’s law.
Jabesh-gilead, located east of the Jordan River in the region of Gilead, was a settlement that likely fell under the broader oversight of the Israelite tribes but had failed to join the rest of Israel in their previous military campaign. Gilead was a hilly area spread along the territory corresponding largely to modern northern Jordan. Its people’s absence during Israel’s crisis led to their being singled out for punishment. By sending *“12,000 of the valiant warriors” (v.10)*, the leaders expressed their conviction that Jabesh-gilead had broken faith with the rest of the tribes. Historically, this event took place sometime before the establishment of Israel’s monarchy (roughly before 1050 BC), fitting into the era marked by tribal rule and repeated cycles of sin, oppression, supplication, and deliverance.
From a broader biblical perspective, the tragic nature of *“strike the inhabitants … with the women and the little ones” (v.10)* underscores how fractured Israel had become, even in matters of justice and mercy. While this passage deals with an Old Testament scenario of civil strife and retributive punishment, the New Testament counters such discord with Christ’s message of grace, reconciliation, and love among believers (John 13:34-35 NASB-95, supporting verse). That contrast highlights that Israel’s downward trajectory in Judges demonstrates humanity’s deep need for a godly king and savior—a foreshadowing of the redemptive work embodied by Jesus centuries later.
Israel’s drastic action against Jabesh-gilead shows the devastating consequences of a nation that has lost its foundational moral compass.
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:
- Judges 4:4-10 meaning. This passage introduces Deborah, a prophetess and judge of Israel, who calls upon Barak to lead an army against Sisera, the commander of Jabin’s forces. Deborah delivers a divine command to Barak, instructing him to gather ten thousand men and promising victory over Sisera. Barak agrees to go but insists that Deborah accompany him. Deborah agrees, but because of Barak’s fear, Deborah predicts that the honor of victory will ultimately go to a woman. Together, Barak and Deborah lead the forces of Zebulun and Naphtali to battle.
- Judges 1:16-21 meaning. The descendants of the Kenite join the tribe of Judah in their territory. Despite the Lord’s presence, Judah fails to drive out the inhabitants of the valley, beginning to show the start of their failures. Caleb is given Hebron and drives out the Anakim, but the tribe of Benjamin also fails in their war efforts.
- Deuteronomy 16:21-22 meaning. The Israelites are prohibited from building an Asherah pole of any kind. They are to give exclusive worship to their Suzerain (Ruler) God.