Now there was an appointed sign between the men of Israel and the liers in wait, that they should make a great flame with smoke rise up out of the city.
JUDGES 20:38KJVWhat does Judges 20:38 mean?
Judges 20:38 describes how the men of Israel and their hidden ambush group agreed on a signal: when a large column of smoke rose from the city, it would be the sign for the ambush to act. This arrangement allowed them to coordinate their attack without direct communication.
This verse takes place during the civil conflict between the tribes of Israel and the people of Gibeah in Benjamin. The Israelites had set an ambush around Gibeah, and this verse explains the practical detail of how the main army and the ambushers would know when to move. The “great flame with smoke” was a clear, visible signal that could be seen from a distance, ensuring both groups acted together at the right moment.
The Hebrew behind Judges 20:38
- sign (מוֹעֵד, mo‘ed): This word often means an appointed time or meeting, but here it refers to a prearranged signal. It shows the careful planning between the Israelite forces.
- flame (מַשְׂאָה, mas’eh): This word can mean a rising column, often of smoke or fire. The use of a dramatic, visible signal emphasizes the need for clarity and coordination in the chaos of battle.
- smoke (עָשָׁן, ‘ashan): The word for smoke highlights that the signal was not just fire, but something that could be seen from far away, making it practical for military communication.
Why Judges 20:38 matters
- Judges 20:38 clarifies how the Israelites coordinated a complex military strategy, showing that their victory was not just brute force but involved careful planning.
- The verse connects directly to the surrounding narrative, explaining how the ambush was triggered and why the Benjaminites were caught off guard.
- Understanding the use of a visible signal helps modern readers see the practical realities of ancient warfare and communication, which can otherwise seem distant or confusing.