"For the people were numbered, and, behold, there were none of the inhabitants of Jabesh-gilead there."
Context:The book of Judges is set during a tumultuous period in Israel’s history, after the Israelites had settled in the Promised Land. The Israelites had been divided into tribes, and God appointed judges to deliver them from their enemies and lead them. However, during this time, there was a recurring cycle of the Israelites falling into idolatry, facing oppression from surrounding nations, crying out to God for help, and then being delivered through a judge. The book of Judges provides accounts of various judges and their leadership over Israel.
Verse Meaning:
In Judges 21:9, we find the Israelites facing a crisis. They had taken an oath not to give their daughters in marriage to the tribe of Benjamin due to a grave sin committed by some of the Benjamites (see Judges 19-20). This decision left the tribe of Benjamin at risk of extinction, as they had no wives to bear children. Recognizing the consequences of their vow, the Israelites gathered to find a solution.
The phrase "the people were numbered" indicates that the Israelites conducted a census or count of their people to assess the situation accurately. As they evaluated the numbers, they discovered that none of the inhabitants of Jabesh-gilead had come to the assembly. Jabesh-gilead was a city located east of the Jordan River, and its absence from the gathering was significant.
The absence of the inhabitants of Jabesh-gilead likely created a problem for the Israelites because they were hoping to find a solution within their own tribes. Without the people of Jabesh-gilead present, the Israelites needed to find an alternative way to fulfill their oath and provide wives for the remaining Benjamites.
Lessons and Applications:
- The Consequences of Vows:This passage highlights the importance of careful consideration and discernment when making vows or oaths. The Israelites’ vow not to give their daughters in marriage to the Benjamites had unintended consequences, leading to a difficult situation. It serves as a reminder for us to be mindful of the commitments we make and the potential consequences they may have.
- Seeking Solutions:The Israelites faced a crisis and needed to find a solution to their dilemma. This passage reminds us of the importance of seeking wise counsel, evaluating available options, and being open to alternative solutions when facing challenging circumstances. It encourages us to approach problems with a spirit of creativity, collaboration, and prayer.
- The Importance of Unity:The absence of the inhabitants of Jabesh-gilead underscored the significance of unity among the tribes of Israel. Their absence highlighted the need for collective decision-making and the participation of all parties involved. As believers, we should value and pursue unity within the body of Christ, recognizing that our strength lies in our togetherness.
- God’s Faithfulness:Although this particular verse does not mention God explicitly, the book of Judges as a whole demonstrates God’s faithfulness to His covenant and His people. Despite the Israelites’ failures and the consequences they faced, God continued to work among them and provide solutions. This passage reminds us of God’s enduring faithfulness and His ability to bring about redemption and restoration, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
Remember that studying the Bible involves considering the broader context, understanding historical background, and exploring related passages to gain a comprehensive understanding.
