Judges 21:5
And the children of Israel said, Who is there among all the tribes of Israel that came not up with the congregation unto the LORD? For they had made a great oath concerning him that came not up to the LORD to Mizpeh, saying, He shall surely be put to death.
Judges 21:5 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse in question highlights a solemn oath taken by the children of Israel at Mizpeh. They inquired about anyone from the tribes of Israel who did not participate in the congregation called by the LORD. It was established that those who failed to join the assembly would face the penalty of death. This verse underscores the seriousness with which the children of Israel regarded their commitment to the LORD and the unity of their people. It reflects the importance of community and collective worship in their faith. By emphasizing the consequences for not participating in worshipping the LORD together, this verse serves as a reminder of the significance of communal worship and the unity it fosters among believers. This event at Mizpeh serves as a pivotal moment in the history of the children of Israel, showcasing their dedication to following the commandments of the LORD as a unified people.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the children of Israel are discussing the consequences for those who did not come up to the Lord with the congregation at Mizpeh. This passage showcases the seriousness with which the Israelites viewed the act of coming together to worship the Lord. By making a great oath concerning those who did not participate, the Israelites demonstrated their unwavering commitment to following the commands of the Lord. The mention of death as the punishment for failing to come up to the Lord highlights the importance placed on unity and communal worship within the Israelite community. This verse serves as a reminder of the significance of honoring one's commitment to God and the consequences of neglecting to do so, as emphasized through the strong language used to convey the severity of the situation.
Judges 21:5 in other translations
American Standard Version
And the children of Israel said, Who is there among all the tribes of Israel that came not up in the assembly unto Jehovah? For they had made a great oath concerning him that came not up unto Jehovah to Mizpah, saying, He shall surely be put to death.
World English Bible
The children of Israel said, “Who is there among all the tribes of Israel who didn’t come up in the assembly to Yahweh?” For they had made a great oath concerning him who didn’t come up to Yahweh to Mizpah, saying, “He shall surely be put to death.”
Douay-Rheims
Who is there among all the tribes of Israel that came not up with the army of the Lord? for they had bound themselves with a great oath, when they were in Maspha, that whosoever were wanting should be slain.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then the children of Israel said, Who is he among all the tribes of Israel, that came not vp with the Congregation vnto the Lord? for they had made a great othe concerning him that came not vp to the Lord to Mizpeh, saying, Let him die the death.