Judges 20:40
But when the flame began to arise vp out of the citie, with a pillar of smoke, the Beniamites looked behind them, and behold, the flame of the citie ascended vp to heauen. Judges 20:40 (KJV)
The book of Judges records the period of Israel’s history after they entered the Promised Land. During this time the Israelites did evil in the sight of the Lord, and as a result God allowed them to be oppressed by their enemies. In response to their cries for help, God raised up judges to deliver them from their oppressors. Judges 20 recounts a significant conflict between the Israelites and the tribe of Benjamin. In the preceding verses the other tribes of Israel were outraged by the wickedness committed by the men of Benjamin, particularly a heinous crime against a Levite’s concubine. The rest of the Israelite tribes gathered together and sought justice against the tribe of Benjamin for harboring the offenders, and the conflict escalated into a full‑scale war.
Verse Analysis:
“And when the flame began to arise up out of the city with a pillar of smoke…” This verse describes a turning point in the battle between the Israelites and the tribe of Benjamin. The city mentioned is Gibeah, the hometown of the men who committed the wickedness. The phrase “flame began to arise up” suggests that the Israelite forces set the city on fire, producing thick smoke that rose toward the heavens. “…the Benjamites looked behind them, and, behold, the flame of the city ascended up to heaven.” Upon seeing the city engulfed in fire and the pillar of smoke rising high, the Benjamites turned and witnessed the devastation of their own city, a sight emphasized by the language “ascended up to heaven,” underscoring the magnitude of the blaze.
Key Themes and Lessons:
Consequences of Sin: The events leading up to the battle reveal the severe consequences of sin. The tribe of Benjamin had sheltered wicked men and refused to bring the offenders to justice, resulting in a devastating war that affected the whole community.
Justice and Accountability: The Israelites sought justice for the evil committed in their midst, demonstrating the importance of accountability within the community and the need to uphold moral standards.
Divine Judgment: The burning of the city and the rising smoke can be seen as a form of divine judgment. Throughout Scripture fire often symbolizes God’s judgment or purification, highlighting the consequences faced by the tribe of Benjamin because of their wrongdoing.
God’s Sovereignty: While not explicitly mentioned in this verse, the broader narrative of Judges underscores God’s sovereignty and involvement in the affairs of His people. God allowed the conflict to take place, and the outcome reflected His justice and the consequences of the tribes’ actions.
Application: The account of Judges 20:40 reminds believers of the importance of living in accordance with God’s laws, seeking justice, and maintaining accountability within our communities. It serves as a sobering reminder that unchecked sin can bring catastrophic consequences. As followers of Christ we should strive to uphold righteousness, pursue justice, and recognize God’s sovereign hand in all circumstances.
Note: The events described in Judges are often violent and morally challenging. It is important to read and interpret them within the broader biblical narrative, considering the overarching themes of God’s redemptive plan throughout Scripture.
