Book of Judges - Chapter 20 - Verse 35

In this verse from the Book of Judges, we see the unfolding of a grim event in which the Lord struck down the tribe of Benjamin before the Israelites. The Israelites went on to defeat the Benjamites, resulting in the deaths of twenty-five thousand and one hundred men from the tribe of Benjamin. This passage serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and sin in the eyes of the Lord. The Lord's judgment upon the Benjamites highlights the importance of following God's commandments and living according to His will. It also demonstrates the power and authority of God over His people, reinforcing the idea of divine justice and retribution. Through this tragic event, the Israelites are made to realize the severity of their actions and the need to seek forgiveness and redemption from the Lord. This verse serves as a cautionary tale and teaches a valuable lesson about the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God.

One potential theological interpretation of this verse is that it highlights the consequences of disobedience and sin. The LORD's smiting of Benjamin can be seen as a form of judgment for their actions, which led to a significant loss of life among the Benjamites. This can serve as a warning to readers about the repercussions of straying from God's commands. Additionally, the mention of the children of Israel destroying the Benjamites emphasizes the idea of God using his people as instruments of his justice. The destruction of the Benjamites by the Israelites can be understood as a demonstration of God's power and authority over his chosen people.

From a word study perspective, the phrase "drew the sword" carries a connotation of violence and warfare. This indicates that the conflict between Benjamin and Israel was a bloody and intense battle, resulting in a high death toll. The use of the sword as a tool of destruction underscores the brutal nature of the conflict and the severity of the LORD's judgment upon Benjamin. By examining the specific language used in this verse, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the context and significance of the events described in the passage.