Judges 21:4
We see the people of Israel in a pivotal moment, pursuing reconciliation with the Lord after a season of terrible conflict. In the text, we read that *“It came about the next day that the people arose early and built an altar there and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings”* (v.4). The reference to “the next day” connects to the heartbreak of the previous verses, where Israel grieved deeply over the civil conflict with the tribe of Benjamin. They assemble at Bethel, a city whose name means “House of God,” located approximately twelve miles north of Jerusalem. Bethel held significant importance throughout Israel’s history because it often served as a place of connection with God (Genesis 28:19). By building an altar and offering sacrifices in Bethel, the Israelites demonstrate a sincere devotion amid their desperation, showing a desire to return to God’s favor.
These *burnt offerings and peace offerings* (v.4) hold deep spiritual meaning throughout Scripture. Burnt offerings involved complete dedication to God, with the entire sacrifice consumed by fire (Leviticus 1:1–17 NASB-95). Peace offerings, on the other hand, involved a shared meal, symbolizing restored fellowship with God and among His people (Leviticus 3:1–17 NASB-95). By making both offerings, the children of Israel confessed their dependence upon the Lord for mercy and expressed their longing to be in right relationship with Him once again. In light of the New Testament, this echoes the ultimate offering made by Jesus, who bridged humanity’s separation from God and brought true peace (Ephesians 2:14 NASB-95).
Moreover, when the Israelites rose “early” to construct this altar, it reflects the urgency and earnestness of their repentance. Although the text here focuses on a corporate act, it reminds us that true worship involves both internal humility and external obedience. This moment also reveals the cyclical theme in Judges: a pattern of sin, repentance, and deliverance as the people grapple with remaining faithful to God in the absence of strong leadership. The altar at Bethel stood as a unified statement of contrition and a plea for renewed blessing, pointing toward a reconciled community under God’s guidance.
This verse demonstrates how wholeheartedly turning to the Lord can bring renewal after even the darkest moments of communal strife.
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 4:23-24 meaning. These final verses mark the conclusion of the battle against Jabin, king of Canaan. After Sisera’s defeat and death, God continues to subdue Jabin’s forces, leading to Israel’s increasing dominance over him. Over time, the Israelites press harder against Jabin until they fully destroy his rule, securing their freedom from Canaanite oppression.
- Judges 4:17-22 meaning. This passage narrates the surprising and decisive role of a woman named Jael, the wife of Heber the Kenite, in the defeat of Sisera. After fleeing the battle, Sisera seeks refuge in Jael’s tent, where she deceptively offers him hospitality. However, once Sisera falls asleep, Jael takes initiative and marks her place in Israel’s redemptive history.