Judges 20:42
Therefore they turned their backs before the men of Israel unto the way of the wilderness; but the battle overtook them; and them which came out of the cities they destroyed in the midst of them.
Judges 20:42 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the Israelites were engaged in a battle with their enemies who had turned their backs and attempted to flee towards the wilderness. However, despite their escape attempt, the Israelites were able to catch up to them and the battle continued. The Israelites were successful in not only defeating their enemies in the open field but also in pursuing them back to the nearby cities from which they had come. As the Israelites pursued them, they were able to destroy those who had come out of the cities, completing their victory in the midst of their foes.
This verse highlights the determination and perseverance of the Israelites in battle, as well as their ability to successfully overcome their enemies through strategic pursuit and warfare. It also showcases the swift and decisive action taken by the Israelites in order to secure their victory and protect their people. The verse serves as a reminder of the strength and prowess of the Israelite army, as well as their commitment to defending their land and people against external threats.
Theological Overview
Many theological interpretations of this verse point to the theme of divine intervention and justice in the face of enemy attack. The phrase "Therefore they turned their backs before the men of Israel unto the way of the wilderness" signifies the enemies retreating in the face of the Israelites, but divine intervention caused the battle to overtake them. This can be seen as a demonstration of God's power and protection over his people. The destruction of the enemies that came out of the cities in the midst of them can be seen as a display of God's judgment upon those who seek to harm his chosen people. Word studies on phrases like "turned their backs" and "the battle overtook them" can offer deeper insights into the historical context and cultural implications of the verse. The use of language in this verse indicates a swift and decisive action on the part of God in defense of his people, reinforcing the biblical narrative of God's faithfulness to those who trust in him.
Judges 20:42 in other translations
American Standard Version
Therefore they turned their backs before the men of Israel unto the way of the wilderness; but the battle followed hard after them; and they that came out of the cities destroyed them in the midst thereof.
World English Bible
Therefore they turned their backs before the men of Israel to the way of the wilderness; but the battle followed hard after them; and those who came out of the cities destroyed them in its midst.
Douay-Rheims
And began to go towards the way of the desert, the enemy pursuing them thither also. And they that fired the city came also out to meet them.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Therefore they fled before the men of Israel vnto the way of the wildernesse, but the battell ouertooke them: also they which came out of the cities, slew them among them.