12 Then the tribes of Israel sent men through the entire tribe of Benjamin , saying , "What is this wickedness that has taken place among you?

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Judges 20:12

Chapter Contents

The tribe of Benjamin nearly extirpated.

The Israelites' abhorrence of the crime committed at Gibeah, and their resolution to punish the criminals, were right; but they formed their resolves with too much haste and self-confidence. The eternal ruin of souls will be worse, and more fearful, than these desolations of a tribe.