שופטים, פרק א׳, פסוק כ״א

The presence of foreign inhabitants in the heart of Jerusalem reflects a complex geographic and historical reality, where control over the city remained divided and limited for generations. While historical accounts sometimes attribute the failure to drive out these inhabitants to the tribe of Judah, the responsibility is also placed on the tribe of Benjamin. The primary approach among commentators is that Jerusalem was not merely a single walled city, but a large district split between the territories of these two tribes [רד״ק, אברבנאל, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The tribe of Judah successfully conquered and burned their portion of the city. In contrast, the tribe of Benjamin either failed to conquer their section or allowed the original inhabitants to return and resettle [אברבנאל]. Furthermore, the formidable fortress of Zion remained entirely unconquered by both tribes [אברבנאל].

There are differing perspectives regarding the identity of these inhabitants, known as the Jebusites. They are viewed either as the specific nation residing in the area [מצודת דוד] or as the name of a distinct district within Jerusalem itself [רש״י, אברבנאל]. The reasons behind the failure to expel them are equally debated. One approach points to simple negligence, suggesting that the tribe of Benjamin was lazy in fulfilling the Commandment to conquer the land [מלבי״ם]. Another perspective argues that the Israelites faced a strict legal and historical barrier. According to this view, the Jebusites were descendants of Abimelech. The Israelites were forbidden from harming them because of a binding oath Abraham had sworn to Abimelech, promising not to harm him, his son, or his grandson. This ancient treaty remained in effect because Abimelech's grandson was still alive [רש״י, רלב״ג].

This divided reality persisted for a significant period, lasting up to the era when the Book of Judges was recorded, a text traditionally authored by Samuel the Prophet [רד״ק, רלב״ג]. In fact, these foreign residents continued to live in Jerusalem long after, only being fully removed when King David finally achieved complete conquest of the city [רד״ק]. Ultimately, allowing these nations to remain within the borders of Israel was not just a territorial compromise. As the Torah had originally warned, their continued presence evolved into a severe spiritual trap for the Israelites [רלב״ג].