Definition: (Now the children of Benjamin heard that the children of Israel were gone up to Mizpeh.) Then said the children of Israel, Tell [us], how was this wickedness?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 20:3. It’s a really important moment in the story of Israel and it highlights a key issue with their leadership. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Situation: Israel is in trouble: The Israelites were traveling and found themselves separated from the rest of the people they were supposed to be with. They’re heading to Mizpeh: They were headed towards a place called Mizpeh, which was a city – think of it as a major town or area - that was known for being filled with wickedness (evil). What happened next: The Israelites ask a question: The Israelites, feeling uncomfortable and worried, asked the leaders to explain how this wickedness was happening. They wanted to understand the root of the problem. In essence, the verse is telling us that Israel was experiencing a troubling situation – they were in a place with bad behavior, and they needed an explanation. Why it’s significant: This story shows that even when people are separated from their group, there's still a need for understanding and accountability. It points to a larger problem – the Israelites’ leadership wasn't handling things well, and it was causing them distress. It sets the stage for further conflict and challenges in the Bible. Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage? Talk about what this story might symbolize (e.g., a leader’s responsibility)?

Definition: And the children of Israel went up against the children of Benjamin on the third day, and put themselves in array against Gibeah, as at other times.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 20:30. It's a really important part of understanding how God dealt with a serious problem. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Israel was having problems with the Benjamites. The Israelites were fighting with a group of people called the Benjamites, who were considered to be rebellious and troublesome. They went up against them on the third day. This is the key point – they actively attacked the Benjamites. They set up an array (a line) against Gibeah. Gibeah was a special area in Jerusalem that was used for rituals and ceremonies related to hygiene and protection. The Israelites, feeling aggressive, arranged themselves in a line right along the path of the Benjamites – essentially creating a defensive barrier. What's happening? It’s about punishment and escalating conflict. This verse describes a cycle of violence. It shows that when Israel was angry or provoked, they would repeatedly attack the Benjamites, using this defensive arrangement as a pattern. It suggests a growing problem of rebellion and hostility between the Israelites and the Benjamites. Why is it significant? It’s a sign of ongoing conflict: This wasn't just a one-time incident. It shows that the issue of rebellion against the Benjamites was continuing . It highlights the consequences of anger: The act of setting up an array demonstrates a lack of restraint and a willingness to escalate conflict, which is a serious warning from God. In short, this verse describes a pattern of repeated attacks that demonstrated Israel’s growing rebellion against their neighbors. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of the story in more detail? Connect this verse to other Bible stories or themes?

Definition: And the children of Benjamin went out against the people, [and] were drawn away from the city; and they began to smite of the people, [and] kill, as at other times, in the highways, of which one goeth up to the house of God, and the other to Gibeah in the field, about thirty men of Israel.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 20:31. It's a really important and concerning passage about a rebellion happening within the tribe of Benjamin. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Situation: Benjamin Tribe is Rebeling: The verse tells us that the Benjamin tribe, who lived near Jerusalem, started to disobey God’s commands and start their own separate way. They Went Out Against the People: They left the city and ventured out into the wider area, essentially going against the authority of Israel. They Started Killing & Smearing: This is the worst part. They began to attack people – both Israelites and non-Israelites – in the streets and along the roads. This was a brutal and violent act. It’s like they were acting out of anger, frustration, or perhaps even a desire for revenge. It's Like a Pattern of Violence: The verse says this is happening like other times when people went astray. It suggests there's a pattern of rebellion and violence that’s going on. What’s Being Said? The verse describes a significant shift in behavior within the Benjamin tribe. They moved away from following God’s rules and started causing harm to others. This wasn’t just a small disagreement; it was a serious problem that threatened the stability of Israel. Why is this important? This story is seen as a warning about the potential for disobedience and rebellion within groups of people, even those who are close to God. It shows that even when people are trying to do what’s right, they can sometimes stray from the path and cause harm. It’s a reminder that maintaining obedience to God's laws is crucial for Israel’s safety and prosperity. In short: The Benjamin tribe rebelled, leading to violence and disruption, highlighting the importance of staying true to God's commands. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this passage? Discuss its historical context (when did it happen)? Talk about what this verse might be teaching us about human nature or leadership?

Definition: And the children of Benjamin said, They [are] smitten down before us, as at the first. But the children of Israel said, Let us flee, and draw them from the city unto the highways.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 20:32. It’s a really important moment in history! Here's what it means in simple terms: The Situation: A Siege: The Israelites were camped near Jerusalem. They were being besieged by the Philistines, who were attacking them. A Fight: During this siege, the Philistines started attacking the Israelites. It was a very dangerous and difficult situation. What Happened Next: The Children of Benjamin: This refers to a specific group of Israelites – the Benjamites – who were known for being restless and sometimes rebellious. “They are smitten down” : This means they suffered a big defeat, perhaps losing some soldiers or experiencing a significant setback in battle. “As at the first.” This is a crucial part of the verse. It’s like saying “It happened just like it was before.” They were already facing challenges, and this attack only made things worse. What Did the Israelites Do? Fled: The Israelites, recognizing the danger, decided to flee from the city. Drew Them Away: They instructed the people to move away from the city – towards the roads and highways. They wanted to get themselves out of that dangerous area. In short: The Israelites were facing a serious threat, but they made a smart decision to escape the fighting and seek safety. Overall Meaning: It’s a story about recognizing danger and acting decisively to protect themselves. It's a reminder that sometimes, it's better to move away from a difficult situation than to fight it head-on. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Provide more context about the history of this event? Talk about the significance of this story in biblical storytelling?

Definition: And all the men of Israel rose up out of their place, and put themselves in array at Baaltamar: and the liers in wait of Israel came forth out of their places, [even] out of the meadows of Gibeah.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 20:33. It’s a really important passage that describes a serious situation with significant consequences for Israel. Here's a simplified explanation: What it says: “And all the men of Israel rose up out of their place, and put themselves in array at Baaltamar: and the liers in wait of Israel came forth out of their places, [even] out of the meadows of Gibeah.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And all the men of Israel rose up out of their place…” : This means the Israelites, who were already experiencing problems, suddenly started to move around and gather together. It's like a sudden surge of movement or unrest. “…and put themselves in array at Baaltamar…” : “Baaltamar” is a place – it’s a specific area marked as a boundary or a place of importance. So, they formed a line or an array around this area. "Array" means to arrange something in a line or formation. “…and the liers in wait of Israel came forth out of their places…” : This is the key part. “Liars” refers to those who were deceiving or spreading false information. “In wait” means they were hidden, waiting to act. So, these deceivers were suddenly revealed and began to speak out. “[even] out of the meadows of Gibeah.” : This is where it gets really significant. “Gibeah” was a special area in ancient Israel, often considered a boundary or a place of protection. It was used for rituals and ceremonies related to warfare and the dead. The fact that they were coming out of the meadows of Gibeah suggests they were moving towards a place where these deceptive people were likely to be found. So, what's the big picture? This verse describes a moment of intense conflict and deception within Israel. The Israelites, who were already facing challenges, suddenly became vulnerable because these liars started speaking out. It’s a clear warning about the dangers of false leadership and the importance of discerning truth from lies. Why is it important? This event highlights several key themes: Divine Judgment: The verse points to a divine judgment being imminent – the Israelites were being brought into a situation where they needed to be held accountable for their actions. The Importance of Boundaries: The arrangement at Baaltamar suggests a need for clear boundaries and control. Warning about Deception: It’s a direct warning against the spread of false information and the influence of deception. In short, this verse tells us that Israel was facing a serious crisis due to deceptive people emerging from a specific area – Gibeah – and it sets the stage for further conflict. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part in more detail? Connect this verse to other Bible stories or themes? Give you a quick summary of what the verse is really saying?

Definition: And there came against Gibeah ten thousand chosen men out of all Israel, and the battle was sore: but they knew not that evil [was] near them.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from Judges 20:34. It’s a really important story about protecting a young man and preventing a terrible thing from happening. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: A Young Man is Being Threatened: The verse begins with a worrying situation. A young man named Saul (who was previously a judge) is being targeted by a large group of Israelites – basically, a huge army of people from Israel. They’re Coming in Force: These Israelites aren't just a few people; they’re coming in ten thousand – that's a massive number! It's like a really big, overwhelming force. The Battle is Fierce: The text describes the battle as being extremely difficult and dangerous. It’s not a simple skirmish; it's a serious struggle. They Don’t Know It’s Bad: Crucially, the Israelites don’t realize that danger is looming. They're completely oblivious to the impending threat. What's Being Said – The Core Meaning: This verse warns us about a planned attack and suggests a deliberate attempt to hide it. It's saying: A Secret Threat: There was a hidden evil or danger coming, but it wasn’t immediately obvious. They Were Prepared: These ten thousand Israelites were specifically chosen – they were prepared for this challenge. They were organized and ready to fight. God is Protecting His People: The story highlights that God is actively protecting his people from harm, even when they don't understand the danger. In essence, it’s a warning about vigilance and the importance of being aware of potential threats. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail? Give you some possible interpretations of what this story might mean?

Definition: And the LORD smote Benjamin before Israel: and the children of Israel destroyed of the Benjamites that day twenty and five thousand and an hundred men: all these drew the sword.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Judges 20:35. It’s a really important and dramatic story about a conflict and its consequences. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: A Problem Started with a Leader: The verse begins with a leader named Benjamin who was appointed to lead the Israelites. Benjamin’s Rebellion: Benjamin, feeling unfairly treated by God, decided to rebel against his superiors and challenge their authority. He led a group of around 20,000-30,000 men – essentially a large fighting force – and began attacking Israel. The Attack Escalates: This rebellion quickly turned into a violent conflict. The rebels attacked the Israelites, and they destroyed a significant portion of the population. What Happened Next? Massive Loss of Life: A truly shocking part of the story is that all these rebels – around 20,000-30,000 men – fought fiercely and ultimately killed many Israelites. Sword Fighting: The text explicitly says "all these drew the sword." This indicates a brutal, bloody battle where people were actively fighting each other. The Significance & What It Means: This story is significant because it highlights: Divine Justice: God was very angry with Benjamin and his followers. His judgment against them wasn’t just about punishment; it was about fulfilling God's will. The Power of Rebellion: It shows that even seemingly respected leaders can be challenged and rebellious, and that rebellion can have devastating consequences. Violence and Consequences: The story emphasizes that conflict has a cost – in this case, immense loss of life. In short, the verse tells us about a major uprising led by Benjamin, which resulted in a massive bloodshed and destruction of the Israelites. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific biblical story or theme (like obedience or God's justice)? Provide context about the time period when this happened?

Definition: So the children of Benjamin saw that they were smitten: for the men of Israel gave place to the Benjamites, because they trusted unto the liers in wait which they had set beside Gibeah.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 20:36. It's a really important and somewhat dramatic passage about trust and betrayal. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: Benjamin's Troubles: The verse focuses on the Israelites (specifically the tribe of Benjamin) who were experiencing problems. They Were Smitten: "Smitten" means deeply upset, angered, or disillusioned. They were feeling betrayed by something. Giving Place to Benjamites: The Israelites started moving people from Benjamin to a new area – Gibeah. What's Happening - The Root of the Problem? The Benjamites Were Set Up: The Benjamites, who were essentially foreign people, had been strategically placed beside (near) Gibeah. This is crucial. Gibeah was a sacred area for the Israelites – it was considered a place where they could hear God's voice and avoid being tricked or deceived. Trusting to Liars: The Benjamites were trusting in something – they were relying on lies. They were believing that these lies would protect them from danger. So, What Does it Mean? This verse is saying that the Israelites were vulnerable because they placed their trust in a group of people who weren’t truly trustworthy. They believed they could rely on these outsiders to keep them safe, but they were actually being tricked by dishonest people. The Significance: A Warning About Deception: It's a warning against being easily fooled by those who appear friendly or trustworthy. Importance of Vigilance: It highlights the need for careful observation and discernment – to always be aware of potential deceit. Divine Judgment (Potentially): It suggests that this situation could have led to further problems, as the Israelites were vulnerable to being deceived and manipulated. --- In short, it’s a story about trusting in the wrong people leading to trouble. Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage?

Definition: And the liers in wait hasted, and rushed upon Gibeah; and the liers in wait drew [themselves] along, and smote all the city with the edge of the sword.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 20:37. It’s a really important and dramatic passage about how God responded to a group of people who were planning to attack Jerusalem. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: “Liars in wait” : This refers to a group of people – likely priests, officials, or even those who were secretly involved in the plot – who were actively planning to attack Jerusalem. They weren’t just passively waiting; they were actively scheming and preparing for war. “Hasted” : This means rushed and hurried. They were acting quickly and desperately. “Rushed upon Gibeah” : Gibeah was a specific area of Jerusalem, a walled neighborhood with a long history of protection and a strict set of rules about who could enter or leave it. So, they were rushing into this protected area, deliberately violating the boundaries. “Drew [themselves] along” : This is a crucial part. They weren’t just running into the city; they were following the path of the defenders – the soldiers and guards protecting Jerusalem – relentlessly. They moved along the lines of defense. “Smote all the city with the edge of the sword” : This is the terrifying part. They deliberately attacked Jerusalem, using the edge of the sword (a weapon used in warfare) to inflict maximum damage and destruction. They were intentionally causing chaos and widespread harm. What it means – a quick, brutal response: The verse describes God’s immediate and swift judgment on this group who was plotting violence against Jerusalem. It’s a clear message of divine retribution for their actions. It’s not just a passive warning; it’s a very direct and forceful punishment delivered by God. Overall Significance: This passage is often interpreted as a sign that God is deeply concerned about evil and injustice, and He will not tolerate those who deliberately threaten His people or his city. It highlights God's power to punish wickedness and protect His chosen ones. --- To help me explain it further, would you like me to: Explain the context of this verse in the larger story of Judges? Discuss what this verse might symbolize (e.g., evil succeeding)? Or do you have any specific questions about it that you'd like me to answer?

Definition: Now there was an appointed sign between the men of Israel and the liers in wait, that they should make a great flame with smoke rise up out of the city.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Judges 20:38. It’s a pretty intense scene described! Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a dramatic and dangerous situation where Israel was facing a group of deceptive people who were trying to provoke a huge, burning fire. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Now there was an appointed sign…” – This means that someone was specifically chosen or designated to watch over the situation. It wasn’t just random chance; this person had a role to play. “…between the men of Israel and the liars in wait…” – "Liars in wait” are people who were deliberately trying to trick and mislead others. They were positioned to sow doubt and chaos. "Between" indicates they were strategically placed for observation. “…that they should make a great flame with smoke rise up out of the city.” - This is the key part! They were aiming to create a huge, visible fire – a “great flame” – that would signal trouble and draw attention to themselves. The smoke rising out of the city meant it was going to be a significant and noticeable event. What's the Significance? This verse is often interpreted as a warning about the importance of vigilance and discernment. It suggests: Don’t Ignore Warnings: The people were being deliberately manipulated by these deceptive figures. Be Aware of Deception: It highlights that false leaders and misleading influences are always present, requiring careful observation and critical thinking. Preparedness is Key: The scene implies a need for preparedness – to watch out for potential threats and to remain alert to signs of trouble. In short, it’s a story about a deliberate attempt to create chaos through deception, urging us to stay watchful and protect ourselves from those who would try to mislead. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Connect this verse to other stories in the Bible?