Judges·Chapter 20

How to Apply

To live out the message of this verse, take a moment this week to reflect on something that troubles you in your community—maybe it's bullying, inequality, or another form of injustice. Instead of staying silent, think about how you can raise awareness or support those who are affected. You might join a local organization, volunteer, or simply start a conversation with friends about the issue. Your actions can send a powerful message, just like the one in this verse.

Chapter Context

This moment is part of a larger, heart-wrenching story in Judges where a horrific crime against a woman leads to a national outcry. The events that unfold are filled with tension as tribes of Israel come together in anger and sorrow, wanting to seek justice. What happens next is a call to unity among the tribes, escalating into a civil conflict that brings to light deep divisions. This verse serves as a pivotal point, showing not just the emotional turmoil of one person but sparking a collective response from a nation that can't ignore its own moral failures.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• took - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• hold - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• concubine - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• pieces - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• sent - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• all - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• country - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• inheritance - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• israel - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• committed - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

When you think about the injustices around you, what feelings arise, and how can you channel that energy into positive action?

Related Verses

• Deuteronomy 19:15 - This verse talks about the importance of justice and having multiple witnesses to prevent wrongful actions, connecting to the need for accountability.
• Amos 5:24 - Here, it emphasizes the call for justice and righteousness, echoing the same need for moral clarity and action against wrongdoing.
• Micah 6:8 - This verse reminds us of what is required of us: to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly, which aligns with the urgency felt in the moment of this verse.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Judges 20:6. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Civil strife, Moral decay, Justice vs. loyalty, Divine guidance, Collective action, Consequences of sin, Tribal identity

Key Verses

Judges 20:1, Judges 20:5, Judges 20:13, Judges 20:18, Judges 20:20

Historical Context

Judges 20 occurs during a tumultuous period in Israel's history, characterized by a lack of centralized leadership and moral decay following the death of Joshua. This era, often referred to as the time of the judges, is marked by cycles of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. The Levite's story, which begins in Judges 19, emphasizes the deterioration of social order and the breakdown of ethical standards. The events in this chapter highlight the dangers of tribalism and the consequences of failing to uphold communal justice, as the Israelites are drawn into a civil war that threatens their very identity as God's covenant people.