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Judges 21:14

And Benjamin came again at that time; and they gave them wives which they had saved alive of the women of Jabeshgilead: and yet so they sufficed them not.

Judges 21:14 · King James Version

Meaning

During the time when the tribe of Benjamin was nearly wiped out due to a civil war, the other tribes of Israel decided to help them rebuild their population by providing wives for the surviving Benjamites. This act of mercy and kindness allowed the tribe of Benjamin to continue and eventually thrive once again. The women from Jabeshgilead were chosen to be the wives for the men of Benjamin, as they had not been involved in the civil war and were therefore suitable matches. However, even though the Benjamites were given wives, it was noted that the women from Jabeshgilead were not enough to fully replenish the tribe's numbers. This verse serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by the tribe of Benjamin and the support they received from their fellow Israelites in rebuilding their community.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of this verse from Judges 21:14 is that it highlights the importance of God's provision and sovereignty in the lives of His people. The fact that the women of Jabeshgilead were saved alive and given to the men of Benjamin as wives demonstrates God's care for His people even in the midst of difficult circumstances. Despite the fact that there were not enough women to go around, God provided for the needs of the tribe of Benjamin. This can be seen as a reminder to trust in God's provision and to rely on His timing and wisdom, even when things may seem uncertain or insufficient.

Judges 21:14 in other translations

American Standard Version

And Benjamin returned at that time; and they gave them the women whom they had saved alive of the women of Jabesh-gilead: and yet so they sufficed them not.

World English Bible

Benjamin returned at that time; and they gave them the women whom they had saved alive of the women of Jabesh Gilead: and yet so they weren’t enough for them.

Douay-Rheims

And the children of Benjamin came at that time, and wives were given them of Jabes Galaad: but they found no others, whom they might give in like manner.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And Beniamin came againe at that time, and they gaue them wiues which they had saued aliue of the women of Iabesh Gilead: but they had not so ynough for them.