Judges 20:48Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

When the entire nation of Israel was incensed, they united and waged war against the tribe of Benjamin at Gibeah, situated on the Hill. The devastation was such that, despite the heavy population, only a handful managed to flee into the wilderness. Many soldiers from Israel fell in battle. However, God would not have permitted the Israelites to turn against one another had not the sons of Dan venerated the idols from Micah's household, and had the other tribes not remained silent in their recklessness.

The tribe of Benjamin, along with women and children of all ages, faced destruction by sword and flame. The people were filled with intense rage and sought to sever their lineage and eradicate them completely. However, it was not in God's will for an entire tribe to be lost among His people due to the sin of one woman, leading to such harsh consequences.