Judges 21:23

Authorized King James Version

And the children of Benjamin did so, and took them wives, according to their number, of them that danced, whom they caught: and they went and returned unto their inheritance, and repaired the cities, and dwelt in them.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיַּֽעֲשׂוּ

H6213

did so

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

כֵן֙

H3651

properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner

בְּנֵ֣י

H1121

And the children

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

בִנְיָמִ֔ן

H1144

of Benjamin

binjamin, youngest son of jacob; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory

וַיִּשְׂא֤וּ

H5375

and took

to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative

נָשִׁים֙

H802

them wives

a woman

לְמִסְפָּרָ֔ם

H4557

according to their number

a number, definite (arithmetical) or indefinite (large, innumerable; small, a few); also (abstractly) narration

מִן

H4480

properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

הַמְּחֹֽלְל֖וֹת

H2342

of them that danced

properly, to twist or whirl (in a circular or spiral manner), i.e., (specifically) to dance, to writhe in pain (especially of parturition) or fear; fi

#10

אֲשֶׁ֣ר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

#11

גָּזָ֑לוּ

H1497

whom they caught

to pluck off; specifically to flay, strip or rob

#12

וַיֵּֽלְכ֗וּ

H1980

to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

#13

וַיָּשׁ֙וּבוּ֙

H7725

and returned

to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

#14

אֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

#15

נַ֣חֲלָתָ֔ם

H5159

unto their inheritance

properly, something inherited, i.e., (abstractly) occupancy, or (concretely) an heirloom; generally an estate, patrimony or portion

#16

וַיִּבְנוּ֙

H1129

and repaired

to build (literally and figuratively)

#17

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

#18

הֶ֣עָרִ֔ים

H5892

the cities

a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)

#19

וַיֵּֽשְׁב֖וּ

H3427

and dwelt

properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry

#20

בָּהֶֽם׃

Analysis

Within the broader context of Judges, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Judges.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within Judges chapter 21 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?

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