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Judges 20:36

So the children of Benjamin saw that they were smitten: for the men of Israel gave place to the Benjamites, because they trusted unto the liers in wait which they had set beside Gibeah.

Judges 20:36 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the book of Judges recounts a strategic move by the men of Benjamin during a battle against the men of Israel. The men of Benjamin observed that they were being defeated, but the Israelites gave them an opening by trusting in the liers in wait that had been set beside Gibeah. This shows how the Benjamites were able to capitalize on the trust that the Israelites had in their hidden soldiers. By exploiting this vulnerability, the Benjamites were able to turn the tide of the battle in their favor.

Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of strategy and deception in warfare. It reveals how trust can sometimes be a weakness that can be exploited by the enemy. Additionally, it shows the significance of being vigilant and cautious, as being too trusting can lead to unforeseen consequences. This story from the book of Judges serves as a lesson in military tactics and the complexities of warfare.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the Book of Judges, the children of Benjamin were initially gaining the upper hand in battle against the men of Israel. However, the tide turned when the men of Israel decided to trust in the liers in wait they had set beside Gibeah. This account offers a lesson on the importance of strategy and trust in the midst of conflict. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the importance of having faith and relying on God's guidance even in times of uncertainty and adversity. By trusting in the plan that had been set in place, the men of Israel were able to turn the situation in their favor. This serves as a reminder to believers to lean on God's wisdom and providence in all circumstances, even when facing formidable challenges. The word "trust" in this context suggests a deep reliance and belief in the strategy put forth, demonstrating the power of faith and obedience in achieving victory.

Judges 20:36 in other translations

American Standard Version

So the children of Benjamin saw that they were smitten; for the men of Israel gave place to Benjamin, because they trusted unto the liers-in-wait whom they had set against Gibeah.

World English Bible

So the children of Benjamin saw that they were struck; for the men of Israel gave place to Benjamin, because they trusted the ambushers whom they had set against Gibeah.

Douay-Rheims

But the children of Benjamin, when they saw themselves to be too weak, began to flee. Which the children of Israel seeing, gave them place to flee, that they might come to the ambushes that were prepared, which they had set near the city.

Geneva Bible (1599)

So the children of Beniamin sawe that they were striken downe: for the men of Israel gaue place to the Beniamites, because they trusted to the men that lay in waite, which they had laide beside Gibeah.