“And they said, There must be an inheritance for them that be escaped of Benjamin, that a tribe be not destroyed out of Israel.”
Historical Context:The book of Judges describes a period in Israel’s history when they were ruled by a series of judges, who acted as both military leaders and spiritual guides for the nation. During this time, the Israelites faced numerous challenges and conflicts with neighbouring nations.
The Tribe of Benjamin:In the context of Judges 21, the Israelites had just fought against the tribe of Benjamin due to a grievous crime committed by some of its members. The other tribes of Israel, in their anger, vowed not to give their daughters in marriage to the Benjamites. As a result, the tribe of Benjamin was left without wives and the possibility of future descendants.
Seeking a Solution:After realising the potential extinction of the tribe of Benjamin, the Israelites gathered at Mizpah to seek a resolution. They recognised the importance of preserving the twelve tribes of Israel and ensuring that none would be completely wiped out.
Inheritance for the Escaped:The people concluded that they needed to find a way for the remaining Benjamite men to have wives and raise children, ensuring the tribe’s survival. They acknowledged that there must be an inheritance for those who had escaped the earlier conflict. This meant that they would need to find wives for the surviving Benjamites from among the other tribes of Israel.
Importance of Unity:The concern expressed in this verse emphasises the significance of maintaining the unity and integrity of the twelve tribes of Israel. Each tribe held a unique inheritance and played a vital role in God’s plan for His people. The Israelites recognised that the loss of even one tribe would be a significant blow to the nation as a whole.
Lessons for Today:While this passage deals with a specific historical situation, there are valuable lessons we can draw from it. It reminds us of the importance of unity among believers and the need to support and uplift one another. Additionally, it highlights the significance of valuing and preserving God’s chosen people and their heritage.
