Question 1

What does Judges 20:9 mean?

Accepted Answer

Judges 20:9 states that the Israelites decided together on a specific plan to attack the city of Gibeah, choosing to determine their approach by casting lots. This verse shows the people agreeing on a unified action and leaving the details of participation up to chance, rather than individual choice. The verse comes during a crisis meeting of the Israelite tribes after a terrible crime was committed in Gibeah, a city of the tribe of Benjamin. The leaders are speaking to all the people, deciding how to respond. By saying they will "go up by lot," they are organizing their attack in a way that seems fair and impartial, letting chance decide who will go rather than personal preference or favoritism.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Judges 20:9

Accepted Answer

"thing" (דָּבָר, davar): This word often means "matter," "thing," or "decision." Here, it refers to the specific plan or action the Israelites agree to take. "do" (עָשָׂה, asah): This verb means "to do" or "to make." It emphasizes that the Israelites are not just talking but are committing to take concrete action. "Gibeah" (גִּבְעָה, Giv'ah): The name of the city in question, which is central to the conflict. Mentioning Gibeah makes clear the target of their decision. "lot" (גּוֹרָל, goral): This word means "lot" or "portion," often used for casting lots to make decisions. Using lots here shows the Israelites are seeking a method seen as fair or divinely guided, rather than relying on human judgment alone.

Question 3

Why Judges 20:9 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse clarifies that the Israelites are acting together as a united group, not as scattered individuals, which is important for understanding the seriousness of their response. The use of casting lots (goral) highlights their desire for fairness and possibly for God's guidance in deciding who would take part in the attack, rather than letting personal interests decide. This decision sets the stage for the events that follow in the chapter, showing the organized and deliberate nature of the Israelites' actions against Gibeah.

Judges 20:9 (KJV)