King James Version

What Does Judges 1:23 Mean?

“And the house of Joseph sent to descry Bethel. (Now the name of the city before was Luz.)”

Context

And the children of Benjamin did not drive out the Jebusites that inhabited Jerusalem; but the Jebusites dwell with the children of Benjamin in Jerusalem unto this day.

And the house of Joseph, they also went up against Bethel: and the LORD was with them.

And the house of Joseph sent to descry Bethel. (Now the name of the city before was Luz.)

And the spies saw a man come forth out of the city, and they said unto him, Shew us, we pray thee, the entrance into the city, and we will shew thee mercy.

And when he shewed them the entrance into the city, they smote the city with the edge of the sword; but they let go the man and all his family.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(23) **To descry Beth-el.**—The word perhaps implies a regular siege, and it is so understood by the LXX. (Cod. Alex.) and the Vulgate. **Luz.**—We are also told that this was the original name of the city in Genesis 28:19; but there seems to be in that verse a distinction between the *city *and the *place *of Jacob’s dream. (Comp. Joshua 16:2.) The name means either “hazel,” or “sinking,” i.e., a valley depression.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Judges. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Judges 1:23 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.