“How shall we do for wives for them that remain, seeing we have sworn by the LORD that we will not give them of our daughters to wives?”
Context:Judges 21:7 is part of the final chapter of the book of Judges, which recounts a disturbing event that took place in Israel after the civil war against the tribe of Benjamin. The tribe of Benjamin had been almost completely wiped out due to their involvement in a grave sin, and the other tribes of Israel were concerned about the future of Benjamin’s survivors.
Historical Background:To understand the verse better, it’s important to have some historical context. The book of Judges describes a period of Israel’s history characterised by a cycle of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. During this time, Israel was without a centralised government, and people did what was right in their own eyes (Judges 21:25). In the events leading up to this verse, the Israelites fought a civil war against the tribe of Benjamin due to a horrendous crime committed in their territory.
The Dilemma:In Judges 21:7, the Israelites are facing a dilemma. They had taken an oath not to give their daughters in marriage to anyone from the tribe of Benjamin (Judges 21:1). However, after realising that the tribe of Benjamin was on the verge of extinction, they were concerned about the continuity of this tribe within Israel. They recognised the need for the tribe to have wives and perpetuate their lineage but were bound by their oath.
Oaths and Their Consequences:This verse raises questions about the consequences of making oaths or vows without considering the full implications. The Israelites had made a hasty and extreme oath in response to the crimes committed by the tribe of Benjamin (Judges 21:5). Now they were facing the unintended consequences of their oath. It serves as a reminder that we should exercise caution and wisdom when making commitments or vows, considering the potential impact they may have on ourselves and others.
Seeking a Solution:The Israelites were committed to keeping their oath, but they were also concerned about the survival of the tribe of Benjamin. They sought a solution to their dilemma. Subsequently, they devised a plan to allow the remaining Benjaminite men to take wives from a neighbouring city, Jabesh-gilead, which had not sent soldiers to fight against Benjamin (Judges 21:8-14). By doing so, they found a way to fulfil their oath while ensuring the continuation of the tribe of Benjamin.
Lessons and Application:
- Importance of Considered Oaths:This passage emphasises the importance of carefully considering the implications of oaths and vows before making them. Hasty and extreme commitments can lead to unforeseen consequences and moral dilemmas.
- Balancing Commitments:The Israelites faced a difficult decision between keeping their oath and ensuring the survival of a tribe within Israel. They sought a solution that balanced their commitment and their concern for their fellow Israelites. In our lives, we should strive to find ways to honour our commitments while also showing compassion and empathy towards others.
- Consequences of Sin:The events leading up to this verse, including the civil war and the near extinction of a tribe, were a result of the sin and moral decline in Israel. It serves as a reminder of the destructive consequences of sin and the importance of living in accordance with God’s commandments.
Conclusion:Judges 21:7 reveals the moral dilemma faced by the Israelites as they sought to reconcile their oath with their concern for the survival of the tribe of Benjamin. It underscores the importance of thoughtful consideration when making commitments and highlights the consequences of sin. Ultimately, this passage invites us to reflect on the complexities of human decisions and the need for wisdom and discernment in navigating difficult situations.
