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?