The answer is: The men of Gibeah

Judges 20:4-5

Ah, the tale from the Book of Judges! This story, often jarring and grim, reminds us of the complexities of human nature, community breakdown, and the dire need for justice. The men of Gibeah committed an unspeakable crime against the Levite's concubine, which sparks a series of intense events. It's worth noting that Gibeah was part of the territory of Benjamin, one of the tribes of Israel.

Interestingly, this episode illustrates a darker period in Israelite history, marked by moral confusion and chaos. After this horrific act, the Levite dismembered his concubine and sent parts of her throughout Israel, a gruesome call to arms that galvanized the other tribes to confront the men of Gibeah. Not only does this reflect the actions driven by deep grief and outrage, but it also highlights how communal responses can often escalate conflicts into cycles of violence.

This moment in Judges echoes similar stories in biblical narratives where hospitality and honor are pivotal themes. Just think about the plight of Lot in Sodom (Genesis 19), where the protection of guests was sacrosanct and tested. ‘Welcome the stranger’ was a crucial cultural norm, but it was shattered in Gibeah.

Amid the hardships depicted, the rabble within history offers valuable lessons about accountability, morality, and the vital importance of compassionate leadership in congregations and communities. Perhaps this story serves as a call for vigilance against the dangers of societal decay, reminding all of us to work actively towards empathy and justice in our own contexts.