"Now therefore deliver us the men, the children of Belial, which are in Gibeah, that we may put them to death, and put away evil from Israel. But the children of Benjamin would not hearken to the voice of their brethren the children of Israel."
Historical Context:The book of Judges is set during a period of Israel’s history when they were governed by a series of judges who were raised up by God to deliver them from their oppressors. In this particular chapter, the Israelites were dealing with a grievous incident that occurred in the city of Gibeah, which was located in the territory of the tribe of Benjamin. The men of Gibeah had committed a heinous act of gang rape against a Levite’s concubine, resulting in her death. The Levite took her body and cut it into twelve pieces, sending them to the tribes of Israel, which led to outrage and a call for justice.
The Demand for Justice:In verse 13, the Israelites, representing the eleven tribes, demand that the tribe of Benjamin hand over the men of Gibeah who were responsible for the wicked act. The phrase "the children of Belial" refers to wicked and worthless individuals. The Israelites recognized the evil that had been done, and their intention was to put the offenders to death in order to purge evil from their midst and restore justice in Israel.
The Response of Benjamin:Contrary to the demand of their brethren, the tribe of Benjamin refused to hand over the men of Gibeah. They chose to stand with their fellow tribe members rather than supporting justice for the crime committed. This refusal to heed the call for justice set the stage for a conflict between the tribes of Israel and the tribe of Benjamin.
Lessons and Applications:
- Pursuit of Justice:The incident in Gibeah reveals the importance of pursuing justice and holding individuals accountable for their actions. The Israelites recognized the severity of the crime and sought to bring the perpetrators to justice. It teaches us the significance of standing against evil and seeking righteousness.
- Consequences of Disunity:The refusal of the tribe of Benjamin to stand with the rest of Israel against the evil committed in Gibeah led to a civil war-like conflict between the tribes. It underscores the destructive consequences of disunity and the need for unity among God’s people.
- The Nature of Evil:The description of the men of Gibeah as "children of Belial" highlights the presence of wickedness and evil in the world. It serves as a reminder that evil actions have consequences and should be condemned and opposed by God’s people.
- God’s Desire for Justice:Throughout the book of Judges, God raises up judges to deliver Israel and restore justice. This passage reflects God’s concern for justice and His desire to see it upheld among His people.
