Book of Judges - Chapter 21 - Verse 20

In this verse, the commanders are instructing the children of Benjamin to hide and wait in the vineyards. This command is given in the context of a battle, where the tribe of Benjamin is about to engage in warfare against their enemies. The vineyards would have provided good cover and a strategic vantage point for the Benjamites to launch a surprise attack on their opponents. By lying in wait, the Benjamites would have been able to ambush their enemies and gain the upper hand in the battle. This verse highlights the importance of strategic planning and tactics in warfare, as well as the element of surprise in gaining victory over one's enemies. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of being patient and disciplined in carrying out orders, even when faced with difficult and challenging circumstances.

When examining the theological interpretation of the verse 'Therefore they commanded the children of Benjamin, saying, Go and lie in wait in the vineyards;', it is essential to consider the context in which it occurs. This verse is part of the story of the civil war between the tribe of Benjamin and the other tribes of Israel, as narrated in the book of Judges. The Benjamites had committed a grave sin, and as a punishment, the other tribes decided to make war against them.

The command to lie in wait in the vineyards was a strategic military decision made by the tribes of Israel. Vineyards were often located outside the city walls and were vulnerable areas that could be targeted for ambush. By instructing the children of Benjamin to hide in the vineyards, the other tribes were setting a trap to defeat them in battle. This action underscores the brutal and violent nature of the conflict between the tribes and the severity of the punishment meted out to Benjamin.

From a word study perspective, the phrase 'lie in wait' in the original Hebrew conveys the idea of ambush and stealth. The use of this term suggests a deceptive and cunning approach to warfare, where the Benjamites were to conceal themselves and surprise their enemies. This highlights the intense and strategic nature of the military tactics employed in this biblical narrative.