The verse Judges 21:9 from the King James Version of the Bible states, "For the people were numbered, and, behold, there were none of the inhabitants of Jabeshgilead there." To fully understand the meaning and significance of this verse, it is important to explore its context within the larger narrative of the book of Judges and the historical and cultural background of the time.

The book of Judges is set in the period of time prior to the establishment of the monarchy in Israel. It depicts a tumultuous era marked by a cycle of disobedience, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. The Israelites repeatedly turned away from God, leading to their subjugation by various foreign powers. In response, God raised up judges to deliver them from their oppressors.

The specific verse in question comes at the close of the book, as the Israelites are attempting to find wives for the remaining men of the tribe of Benjamin. This tribe had been nearly annihilated in a civil war due to their heinous actions, and the other tribes had sworn not to give their daughters in marriage to any Benjamites. This left the surviving men of Benjamin in a desperate situation, as they were at risk of disappearing as a tribe. In response, the other tribes sought to find a solution to this dilemma.

The verse mentions the people being numbered and the discovery that none of the inhabitants of Jabeshgilead were present. This is significant because it indicates that there were no women from this particular region among the assembled people. The absence of women from Jabeshgilead further complicates the already challenging situation, as it limits the options for finding wives for the men of Benjamin.

To fully grasp the meaning of this verse, it is important to consider the broader themes and messages within the book of Judges. One of the key themes of the book is the consequence of moral and spiritual decline. The entire narrative of the book is marked by the cycle of sin, suffering, repentance, and deliverance. The passage in Judges 21:9 reflects the consequences of the tribes’ moral failings and the repercussions of their actions. The absence of women from Jabeshgilead serves as a reminder of the dire consequences that result from disobedience and wrongdoing.

Additionally, the absence of women from Jabeshgilead raises questions about the value and treatment of women in ancient Israelite society. The book of Judges contains numerous accounts of mistreatment and abuse of women, and this verse serves as a reminder of the marginalized and vulnerable position that women often held within the context of the ancient world. The absence of women from Jabeshgilead highlights the limitations and challenges that women faced in a society where they were often regarded as property or commodities.

From a symbolic standpoint, the absence of women from Jabeshgilead can also be interpreted as a representation of the land itself. Throughout the Bible, land is often used as a symbol of fertility, blessing, and abundance. The fact that there were no women from Jabeshgilead present can be seen as a symbolic representation of a barren and unfruitful land. This symbolism serves as a metaphor for the desperation and bleakness of the situation faced by the men of Benjamin and the broader moral and spiritual decline of the Israelites.

In conclusion, Judges 21:9 from the King James Version of the Bible conveys a powerful message within the broader context of the book of Judges. It serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of moral failings, the treatment of women in ancient society, and the symbolic representation of a barren and unfruitful land. The verse offers a sobering reflection on the state of the Israelites at that time and the challenges they faced as a result of their actions.