Bible Verse Commentary: Judges 21:18

Verse: Judges 21:18 - "Yet, they may not give the daughters of Israel to the Benjamites for wives."

Overview

The verse in Judges 21:18 reflects a complex moment in Israel's history involving the tribe of Benjamin and the consequences of the civil war against them. In the aftermath, the Israelites grapple with how to preserve the tribe's existence without breaking their oaths.

Interpreting the Verse

This verse presents a significant point of examination in understanding the moral and cultural dilemmas faced by the Israelites. Here is an interpretation that combines insights from prominent public domain commentaries:

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes the tragic circumstances the tribe of Benjamin found themselves in due to the civil strife. The prohibition against giving their daughters in marriage underscores their desire to maintain purity and uphold their oaths even at the cost of potential extinction of the tribe.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes points out that the refusal to allow the daughters of Israel to marry Benjamites reflects the seriousness with which the Israelites viewed their commitments. It highlights their conscience regarding oaths made in a previous assembly, showing the weight of communal and divine laws upon their social practices.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke provides insight into the cultural significance of marriage alliances in ancient Israel. He notes that the prohibition was not just a social concern but also a theological one, as such unions could lead to idolatry and influence the worship of Yahweh, which had been a central concern throughout the Book of Judges.

Meaning and Significance

This verse captures the fraught reality of survival when social, moral, and religious obligations intersect. The failure to find wives for the Benjamites without violating their oaths serves as both a narrative of consequence and a reflection on the importance of keeping one’s word:

• Bible Verse Meanings: The verse communicates the tension between community integrity and individual necessity.
• Bible Verse Interpretations: It elucidates how past decisions affect present realities and future generations.

Application to Modern Life

Understanding this scripture can enrich your Bible study insights and guide your decision-making today, especially regarding:

• Commitment: Reflect on the importance of keeping promises.
• Community: Consider how individual actions affect the broader community.

Bible Study Resources

For those interested in delving deeper into Judges 21:18, consider exploring:

• Bible study guides that explore the Book of Judges.
• Bible study lessons focusing on the themes of community versus individuality.
• Bible study tools that provide cultural and historical context for better understanding.

Related Bible Cross References

• Judges 21:1: Discussion of the oath taken by the Israelites not to give their daughters to the Benjamites.
• Deuteronomy 23:3-4: Explicitly states that Ammonites and Moabites should not be admitted to the congregation of the Lord.
• 1 Samuel 11:1: Context of tribal conflicts in Israel that illustrate similar themes of loyalty and consequence.

Conclusion

Judges 21:18 serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of communal vows, the preservation of identity, and the weight of our choices. Engaging with these themes through Bible verse explanations can contribute to a richer understanding of Scripture and its implications for daily life.