Book of Judges - Chapter 20 - Verse 37

This verse describes a brutal and violent attack on the city of Gibeah. The phrase "liars in wait" refers to a group of people who are hiding and waiting to ambush the city. The word "hasted" indicates that they moved quickly and with urgency, while "rushed upon Gibeah" shows their intention to attack swiftly. The following phrase "drew themselves along" suggests that they spread out and surrounded the city. The use of the term "smote all the city with the edge of the sword" reveals the extreme violence of the attack, as the attackers killed all the inhabitants of the city with their swords. This verse highlights the ruthless nature of the attackers and the devastation they brought upon Gibeah.

When examining the theological interpretation of this verse, it is important to note the context in which it occurs. This passage describes a violent attack on the city of Gibeah, where the liers in wait rushed upon the city and struck it with the edge of the sword. This act of aggression raises questions about the nature of violence and warfare in the Bible. Some scholars believe that passages like this one highlight the consequences of human sin and the need for redemption. Others interpret this verse as a demonstration of God's justice and judgment against those who have strayed from his commandments. Additionally, word studies on terms like "liers in wait" and "smote" can provide further insights into the nuances of the original Hebrew text and shed light on the cultural and historical context in which these events occurred.