Judges 20:24

Judges 20:24 (KJV)

And the children of Israel came near against the children of Benjamin the second day.

Context

This verse is part of a tragic narrative in the book of Judges detailing a civil war between the tribe of Benjamin and the other eleven tribes of Israel. The conflict erupted after a heinous crime committed by Benjamites in Gibeah (Judges 19), and Benjamin's refusal to hand over the perpetrators for justice. The other tribes had assembled, sought God's counsel, and attacked Benjamin's territory. However, on the first day of battle, the Israelites suffered a devastating defeat (see Judges 20:21), losing twenty-two thousand men. Despite this immense loss, and having again sought guidance from the LORD, they resolved to continue the fight. Verse 24 marks the beginning of their second attempt to confront Benjamin.

Key Themes

• Persistence in Conflict: Despite a crushing defeat, the Israelites did not give up but returned to battle, demonstrating determination (though perhaps also stubbornness or reliance on their own strength initially).
• The Severity of Civil Strife: This conflict highlights the horrific consequences of sin and disunity among God's people, leading to immense loss of life on both sides.
• Following Divine Instruction (Even After Failure): Having consulted God, the tribes proceeded with the second day's battle according to His word, emphasizing obedience even when the initial outcome was negative.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "came near against" translates the Hebrew verb nagash (נגש), which simply means "to draw near" or "approach." In a military context, it signifies drawing near for battle or attack. The term "second day" (Hebrew: yom hash-sheni) is straightforward, indicating the sequential nature of the conflict.

Related Scriptures

This verse is a direct continuation of the narrative following the first day's battle:

• Judges 20:21: Describes the Israelites' heavy losses on the first day.
• Judges 20:23: Records the Israelites weeping before the LORD and being told to go up again.
• Judges 20:25: Describes the tragic outcome of this second day of fighting.
• Judges 20:35: The eventual victory came on the third day after further prayer and a change in strategy.

Reflection

Judges 20:24 shows the grim determination of the Israelite tribes to see justice served, even after a devastating setback. Their return to battle on the second day, though still resulting in heavy losses, highlights the depth of the crisis and the commitment (or perhaps flawed strategy) of the united tribes. It serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of unresolved sin and internal conflict, even within a people called by God. It also foreshadows the need for persistent faith and reliance on God's strategy, which becomes evident in the account of the third day's battle.