“And they came unto their brethren to Zorah and Eshtaol: and their brethren said unto them, What say ye?”
Context:The book of Judges describes a period in Israel’s history when they were ruled by judges, who were raised up by God to deliver the Israelites from their oppressors. This verse is part of the narrative about the tribe of Dan seeking a new territory to settle in.
Historical Background:At the time of this event, the land of Canaan had been divided among the twelve tribes of Israel. However, the tribe of Dan was struggling to find an inheritance within their allotted territory, and they decided to send out a group of men to explore and find a suitable place for them to settle.
Seeking Guidance:The men from the tribe of Dan journeyed to the town of Zorah and Eshtaol, where their brethren were residing. When they arrived, their fellow Danites asked them, “What say ye?” In other words, they wanted to know the outcome of their exploration and what they had discovered.
Importance of Seeking Counsel:This verse highlights the importance of seeking counsel and input from others, especially in making significant decisions. The Danites recognised the value of discussing their findings with their brethren and obtaining their perspective before taking any further action.
Wisdom in Collecting Perspectives:The Danites sought the opinions and insights of their fellow tribe members who had stayed behind. This indicates a desire for a collective decision-making process and a recognition that the thoughts and wisdom of others can help in making informed choices.
Application to Our Lives:In our own lives, we can learn from this verse by understanding the value of seeking counsel and guidance from others, particularly in important matters. Consulting trusted friends, family members, or mentors can provide us with different perspectives, insights, and advice, helping us make more informed decisions.
It is worth noting that the events described in the book of Judges occurred during a time when “there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes” (Judges 17:6). The narrative serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking godly wisdom and guidance, both from God’s Word and from wise and trusted individuals, to make choices that align with God’s will.
May this Bible study help you gain a deeper understanding of the significance of Judges 18:8 and its relevance to seeking counsel in decision-making.
