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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.

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 1:11-15 meaning. Caleb offers his daughter Achsah in marriage to whoever captures Kiriath-sepher. Othniel, Caleb’s nephew, successfully captures the city and marries Achsah. Achsah then asks Caleb for a field and additional water resources, and Caleb grants her the upper and lower springs.
  • 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.
  • Matthew 15:21-28 meaning. Jesus travels to the Gentile province of Tyre. A Canaanite woman begs Him to heal her daughter. At first Jesus refuses, because He was sent to Israel. But as the woman persists in her great faith, Jesus grants her request.

Judges 21:15