Definition: And the congregation sent thither twelve thousand men of the valiantest, and commanded them, saying, Go and smite the inhabitants of Jabeshgilead with the edge of the sword, with the women and the children.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 21:10. It's a really shocking and disturbing passage that reveals a brutal act committed by a judge. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: Judges is a Judge: The verse comes from a time when the leader of a tribe, called the “congregation,” was sending a large group of soldiers to attack the people of Jabeshgilead (which is basically the area near modern-day Bethlehem). A Very Large Force: They sent 12,000 men – a huge number – to carry out this attack. The Order to Attack: The command was clear: “Smite the inhabitants of Jabeshgilead with the edge of the sword.” This means they were instructed to kill and destroy people in that area. What’s Really Going On - It's a Cruel Act: Targeting Civilians: The verse specifically mentions “women and children.” This is incredibly important because it highlights the deliberate targeting of innocent people – those who are defenseless. It wasn’t just about fighting a battle; it was about deliberately harming civilians. The Sword as a Weapon: The act of using a sword to strike at the people of Jabeshgilead is presented as a violent and aggressive action. It suggests a sense of rage or vengeance on the part of the judge. Why is this a problem? This verse is considered one of the most disturbing examples in the Old Testament. It’s seen as a sign of extreme cruelty and demonstrates that even a judge can commit terrible acts. It raises serious questions about justice, morality, and the potential for abuse of power. Important Note: This passage is difficult to interpret because it describes a horrific act of violence against innocent people. It's a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals. --- Disclaimer: I am an AI Chatbot and not a biblical scholar. This explanation is based on general understanding of biblical texts and historical context. Different interpretations exist, and this verse should be approached with sensitivity and respect. Would you like me to: Explain another part of the Bible? Discuss the significance of this verse within a particular historical period?