Judges 18:23

And they cried unto the children of Dan. And they turned their faces, and said unto Micah, What aileth thee, that thou comest with such a company?

And they cried {H7121} unto the children {H1121} of Dan {H1835}. And they turned {H5437} their faces {H6440}, and said {H559} unto Micah {H4318}, What aileth thee, that thou comest with such a company {H2199}?

and began shouting at them. The people from Dan turned and said to Mikhah, "What's wrong with you, that you've gathered such a crowd?"

When they called out after them, the Danites turned to face them and said to Micah, “What is the matter with you that you have called out such a company?”

And they cried unto the children of Dan. And they turned their faces, and said unto Micah, What aileth thee, that thou comest with such a company?

Commentary

Judges 18:23 captures a pivotal moment of confrontation during the Danite migration, highlighting the moral and spiritual decline prevalent in Israel during the period of the Judges. After the Danite warriors, numbering 600 armed men, had plundered Micah's house of his cultic images and stolen his hired Levite priest, Micah and his neighbors pursued them, demanding their return.

Context of Judges 18:23

This verse is situated in Judges chapter 18, which details the tribe of Dan's search for new territory. They send out spies who discover a fertile, undefended area in Laish (later renamed Dan). On their way, they stop at Micah's house in Ephraim, recognizing the voice of his Levite priest. Seizing the opportunity, they persuade the priest to join them and then take Micah's idols by force. Micah, outraged, gathers his household and neighbors to pursue them. The Danites' question in verse 23 is a direct response to Micah's desperate chase, demonstrating their overwhelming power and contempt for his claims.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Might Over Right: The Danites' question, "What aileth thee, that thou comest with such a company?" is not a genuine inquiry but a display of intimidation. It underscores the prevailing "might makes right" mentality during this chaotic period, where the stronger party simply takes what it wants, disregarding law or justice. This contrasts sharply with God's covenant principles of justice and righteousness.
  • Spiritual Anarchy: The entire narrative in Judges 17-18 illustrates the deep spiritual decay in Israel. Micah's syncretistic worship (combining Yahweh worship with idol veneration) and the Danites' casual theft of religious artifacts underscore a time when "every man did that which was right in his own eyes" during a period without a king or strong central authority.
  • Futility of Idolatry: Micah's distress over the loss of his idols highlights their ultimate powerlessness. These "gods" could not protect themselves, nor could they grant Micah the power to reclaim them. This serves as a stark reminder of the vanity of trusting in created things rather than the living God.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "What aileth thee?" (KJV) translates a Hebrew idiom that literally means "What is to you?" or "What is your problem?" In this context, it carries a sense of challenge, scorn, and even threat. It's not a compassionate inquiry but a dismissive and intimidating question, signaling the Danites' refusal to yield and their readiness to use force against Micah and his small company.

Practical Application

Judges 18:23 serves as a cautionary tale for all ages. It reminds us:

  • The Dangers of Lawlessness: When societal and spiritual authority is absent or ignored, chaos and injustice often prevail. This underscores the importance of God's unchanging law and the need for moral leadership.
  • The Emptiness of False Worship: Micah placed his hope and security in man-made gods, which ultimately failed him. Our true security and peace are found only in God, who is sovereign and powerful enough to protect and provide. We are called to worship Him alone, as commanded in the first commandment.
  • The Power of Intimidation: The Danites used their superior numbers and strength to silence Micah. In our own lives, we may face situations where others try to use power or influence to oppress or silence truth. This verse encourages us to remember that true strength comes from God, not from worldly might.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Samuel 11:5 (2 votes)

    ¶ And, behold, Saul came after the herd out of the field; and Saul said, What [aileth] the people that they weep? And they told him the tidings of the men of Jabesh.

  • Psalms 114:5 (2 votes)

    What [ailed] thee, O thou sea, that thou fleddest? thou Jordan, [that] thou wast driven back?

  • 2 Kings 6:28 (2 votes)

    And the king said unto her, What aileth thee? And she answered, This woman said unto me, Give thy son, that we may eat him to day, and we will eat my son to morrow.

  • Genesis 21:17 (2 votes)

    And God heard the voice of the lad; and the angel of God called to Hagar out of heaven, and said unto her, What aileth thee, Hagar? fear not; for God hath heard the voice of the lad where he [is].

  • Isaiah 22:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ The burden of the valley of vision. What aileth thee now, that thou art wholly gone up to the housetops?

  • 2 Samuel 14:5 (2 votes)

    And the king said unto her, What aileth thee? And she answered, I [am] indeed a widow woman, and mine husband is dead.