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Book of Judges - Chapter 19 - Verse 29

19:29
And when he was come into his house, he took a knife, and laid hold on his concubine, and divided her, together with her bones, into twelve pieces, and sent her into all the coasts of Israel.

Meaning

This verse from the book of Judges in the Bible details a gruesome and horrifying event that serves as a poignant reminder of the depravity that can result from turning away from God. In this verse, a man takes drastic and unspeakable actions by mutilating his concubine and sending her body parts to different regions of Israel. The brutal nature of this act serves as a stark example of the consequences of living a life devoid of God's guidance and principles. It highlights the darkness that can consume individuals when they abandon righteousness and give in to their sinful desires. This verse serves as a sobering warning to all believers to remain steadfast in their faith and to always seek the light of God in their lives, lest they fall into the depths of moral decay and despair.

Theological Overview

In this disturbing and violent passage from the Book of Judges, the action of cutting up the concubine and dispersing her body parts serves as a powerful symbol of the brutal disintegration and division within the nation of Israel during this tumultuous period. The gruesome act of dividing the concubine into twelve pieces mirrors the disunity and fragmentation that plagued the tribes of Israel. The geographical dispersion of the concubine's remains throughout the land underscores the pervasiveness of sin and corruption among the people. The use of the number twelve is significant as it represents the twelve tribes of Israel, highlighting the extent to which this horrific event impacted the entire nation. This verse serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the chaos that ensues when individuals and communities abandon His moral principles.

American Standard Version

And when he was come into his house, he took a knife, and laid hold on his concubine, and divided her, limb by limb, into twelve pieces, and sent her throughout all the borders of Israel.
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