Judges 21:15

In this verse, we see *“And the people were sorry for Benjamin because the LORD had made a breach in the tribes of Israel.”* (Judges 21:15). The phrase *“were sorry”* indicates a deep compassion that the remaining tribes felt for the tribe of Benjamin. Prior to this moment, the entire nation had been embroiled in fierce internal conflict, leading to a near-devastation of Benjamin’s people. Their regret ran deep, as they realized that Israel’s unity—established under the covenant with the LORD—had been disrupted. This “breach in the tribes of Israel” underscored not only a physical rupture but also a spiritual breakdown of unity.

The geographical backdrop of this narrative takes place in the land of Israel, which, at the time of the Judges (circa 1375–1050 BC), was composed of a loose confederation of tribes. The tribe of Benjamin occupied territory in the southern region. Historically, Benjamin descended from Jacob’s youngest son, born around 1916 BC, whose lineage would include significant figures such as King Saul (who lived around 1079–1007 BC). This breach within the tribes caused personal and national anguish, as each tribe recognized that the strength and identity of Israel were bound together under God’s covenant.

From a broader biblical perspective, this verse highlights how compassion and concern for restoration can override vengeance or past hurts. In the New Testament, believers are reminded in 1 Corinthians 12:26 (NASB-95) that if one member suffers, all suffer. The same principle applies here, where sorrow for Benjamin’s situation called for a remedy to reestablish unity. Their hearts were stirred to reconcile the rift, reflecting the kind of mercy and responsibility for community that God desires for His people.

There was a collective realization that the unity God intended for Israel needed to be reclaimed.