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Old Testament

Historical Books

What horrific event was the precursor for conflict between the twelve tribes?

It all started with a Levite, a member of the priestly tribe. This certain Levite had a concubine who was of the tribe of Judah. After traveling all day, they sought shelter in Gibeah, a town belonging to the Benjaminites. None of the Benjaminites offered them hospitality. A man from the tribe of Ephraim, however, happened to be staying in Gibeah because of his work. He offered the Levite and his concubine shelter for the night. At some point during the night, some wicked men from Gibeah started pounding on the Ephraimite’s door, and demanded that he send the Levite out to him so they could rape him.