Judges 20:9

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What Does This Mean?

In this verse, the Israelites decide to attack Gibeah using a method called 'by lot,' which means they will let chance decide who will lead the attack. They are angry at Gibeah because of an incident that occurred there.

Explained for Children

Imagine you and your friends are playing a game and need to choose who will lead the team. You decide to use a random method, like drawing straws, to pick the leader. The Israelites are doing something similar, but for a very serious reason.

Historical Background

This verse is from the Book of Judges, which was written around 1000 BCE. It describes a time when Israel was not united under a king and was governed by judges. The text reflects the customs and conflicts of ancient Israel.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, we can apply this idea of letting chance or a fair method decide things when we have a tough decision to make, like choosing a group leader or settling a dispute among friends.

Topics

• judgment
• conflict resolution
• ancient customs
• leadership
• chance
• Israel

Related Verses

• Joshua 18:10
• 1 Samuel 14:42
• Proverbs 16:33
• Acts 1:26
• Acts 15:36

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the Israelites decide to use a lot to attack Gibeah?

They used a lot to ensure fairness and to leave the decision to God's will, as it was a common practice in ancient Israel to let chance decide important matters.

What is the context of the attack on Gibeah?

The attack on Gibeah was a response to a brutal incident involving a Levite man and the men of Gibeah, which led to a civil war among the Israelites.

How is the concept of 'by lot' relevant in today's decisions?

While not as common today, the idea of using a fair method or leaving a decision to chance can still apply in situations where a fair and impartial decision is needed.

Are there other examples in the Bible where 'by lot' is used?

Yes, other instances include Joshua 18:10 for dividing the land and Acts 1:26 for choosing Matthias to replace Judas as an apostle.