Bible Verse Meaning and Interpretation: Judges 21:3

Judges 21:3 states:

"O Lord, God of Israel, why has this come to pass in Israel, that today there should be one tribe missing in Israel?"

This verse captures a profound moment of lament and inquiry among the Israelites. The context reveals their deep sorrow over the loss of an entire tribe, which was consequential following the events of civil strife and war against the tribe of Benjamin. Below is an analysis blending insights from various public domain commentaries about the verse.

Commentary Overview

The verse reflects the collective despair of the Israelites, particularly regarding the fate of the tribe of Benjamin. Both Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke offer critical insights into the implications and emotional weight of this call to God.

Insight from Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry focuses on the penitential attitude of the Israelites. He emphasizes how the text conveys a sense of loss and divine questioning:

• Prayer and Penitence: The Israelites recognize their role in the conflict that led to Benjamin's near annihilation. They appeal to God in humility, acknowledging their plight.
• Collective Responsibility: Henry notes the strong sense of community responsibility; the loss of a tribe is felt by all, affirming the unity among the people of Israel.

Insights from Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes provides a historical context and theological significance, explaining the gravity of the situation:

• Historical Reflection: Barnes details the events leading to this moment, highlighting the need for divine guidance amidst chaos.
• The Importance of Tribes: He discusses the implications of a tribe being 'missing,' emphasizing the tribal structure's pivotal role in Israel's identity and governance.

Observations by Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke analyzes the emotional tone and the urgency of the Israelites' plea to God:

• Desperation in Prayer: Clarke points to the intensity of their prayer, suggesting that it reveals a heartfelt desperation seeking divine intervention.
• Underlying Fear: The verse also captures the Israelites' fear of losing collective favor in God's eyes, as they ponder the implications of their actions on national unity.

Biblical Exegesis

The inquiry posed in Judges 21:3 leads to deeper theological discussions about God's sovereignty and human action:

• Divine Sovereignty: The people’s question signifies a search for answers regarding God's will and His overarching plan in the lives of His people.
• Moral Consequences: The outcomes of their decisions underline the moral implications of strife and violence, placing responsibility on the people as they reflect on their unity in God's plan.

Cross References

This verse can be related to several other passages that expand on its themes:

• Judges 20:48: Illustrates the destruction of the tribe of Benjamin.
• 1 Samuel 10:20-21: Details the tribes of Israel and their significance.
• Deuteronomy 7:1-2: Talks about the command against the Canaanite nations, relating to tribal identity.

Conclusion

The lamentation expressed in Judges 21:3 is more than a rhetorical question; it embodies a spiritual crisis impacting the Israelites' communal identity. Various biblical commentaries bring to light the intertwining of human experience with divine providence.

For those studying the Bible, understanding such verses involves not only grasping their historical context but also their theological implications. This is valuable for Bible study groups, online Bible study, and those engaged in Bible study resources.