Judges 18:23
And they cried unto the children of Dan. And they turned their faces, and said unto Micah, What aileth thee, that thou comest with such a company?
Judges 18:23 · King James Version
Meaning
When the children of Dan came across Micah and his company, they inquired about the reason for his large following. The children of Dan's response to Micah's presence indicates surprise or concern about his actions. This situation can serve as a lesson on the importance of honesty and transparency in our actions. It is crucial to have clarity and justification for our choices, as confusion and doubt can lead to misunderstandings and conflict. By questioning Micah about the reason for his actions, the children of Dan demonstrated the importance of seeking understanding and clarity in any situation. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of communication and openness in our interactions with others, as it can help prevent misunderstandings and foster better relationships.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the people cry out to the children of Dan, demonstrating a sense of urgency and need for assistance. The word study of "cried" implies a deep emotional appeal, showing the desperate situation they found themselves in. As the Danites turn to face Micah, they question him about his motives for coming with such a large group. The phrase "What aileth thee" suggests a concern for Micah's well-being and a desire to understand the reason behind his actions. This interaction highlights the complexities of human relationships and the importance of communication in resolving conflicts. The theological interpretation of this verse could suggest themes of unity, compassion, and the need for clarity in times of confusion. By exploring the nuances of the language used in this passage, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the underlying messages and lessons embedded in the biblical text.
Judges 18:23 in other translations
American Standard Version
And they cried unto the children of Dan. And they turned their faces, and said unto Micah, What aileth thee, that thou comest with such a company?
World English Bible
They cried to the children of Dan. They turned their faces, and said to Micah, “What ails you, that you come with such a company?”
Douay-Rheims
And began to shout out after them. They looked back, and said to Michas: What aileth thee? Why dost thou cry?
Geneva Bible (1599)
And cryed vnto the children of Dan: who turned their faces, and said vnto Michah, What ayleth thee, that thou makest an outcrie?