“And the people came to the house of God, and abode there till even before God, and lifted up their voices, and wept sore; Judges 21:2 (KJV)”
Context:The book of Judges describes a period of time in Israel’s history after they had settled in the Promised Land. It was a time of disobedience and cycles of sin, where the Israelites would turn away from God, face oppression from their enemies, cry out to God for help, and then be delivered through judges raised up by God. Judges 21 is the concluding chapter of the book, and it records a significant event that occurred after a civil war between the tribe of Benjamin and the other tribes of Israel.
Seeking God’s Guidance:After the civil war, the remaining tribes of Israel were concerned about the future of the tribe of Benjamin, as they had almost been annihilated. They sought God’s guidance and gathered at the house of God (likely referring to the tabernacle) in Shiloh. This demonstrates their recognition of the need for God’s wisdom and direction in making important decisions.
Emotional Expression:The people of Israel, while gathered at the house of God, were overwhelmed with sorrow. They lifted up their voices and wept sorely. This emotional response reflects their deep concern for the preservation of the tribe of Benjamin and their desire for reconciliation among the tribes.
Repentance and Unity:The tears shed by the Israelites were a sign of repentance and a recognition of their past mistakes. They realised that the near extinction of the tribe of Benjamin was a consequence of their collective sin and the failure to address the wickedness within their own ranks. Their tears revealed a desire for unity and restoration among the tribes of Israel.
Seeking God’s Will:The gathering of the people at the house of God also indicates their commitment to seeking God’s will and guidance. They understood the significance of making decisions that were in accordance with God’s desires, rather than relying solely on their own understanding.
Lessons for us:The passage reminds us of the importance of seeking God’s guidance in making decisions and resolving conflicts. It emphasises the need for humility, repentance, and unity among believers. Additionally, it highlights the role of emotional expression as a natural response to sorrow, repentance, and the desire for restoration. It is essential to remember that the events recorded in Judges reflect a specific historical context and should be understood in light of the overall message of the Bible, which points to the redemptive work of Jesus Christ and the principles of faith, love, and righteousness that He exemplified.
