שופטים, פרק כ׳, פסוק א׳

A deep shock strikes the nation following the horrific discovery of the concubine's dismembered remains sent across the borders of the land. This gruesome sight sparks an unprecedented national awakening. Crowds leave their cities and gather together, united in complete agreement and singleness of mind [מצודת דוד, מצודת ציון]. They assemble with a shared mission to investigate the crime, identify the responsible tribe, and purge the evil from their midst. The gathering encompasses the entire geographic scope of the land, stretching from the far northeast to the deep southwest [מצודת דוד]. Every tribe participates in this assembly, with the notable exception of the tribe of Benjamin [רלב״ג].

The mobilization of an entire nation to address a local crime is highly unusual, as each tribe typically judges its own offenders. The necessity of this national response stems from the sheer severity and public nature of the atrocity. Under standard legal procedures, the perpetrators might have escaped the death penalty due to a lack of formal witnesses and prior warning. However, committing such a crime openly and with malicious contempt causes a massive desecration of God's name, demanding an extraordinary reaction. By convening as a formal national congregation led by elders, the people assume a legal authority equivalent to that of a king. This collective power allows them to enact emergency measures, punish the criminals, and uproot the evil [מלבי״ם].

Because a massive crowd cannot conduct an orderly trial, specific leaders are appointed to investigate the details and consult on the proper course of action [אלשיך]. The decision to assemble at Mizpah is deliberate and deeply rooted in history. Since the days of Joshua, this location has served as a recognized meeting place for national assemblies during times of crisis, complete with an altar and a house of prayer [רד״ק, אברבנאל]. Furthermore, this assembly carries a distinct spiritual character. It is a deeply held belief that whenever the Israelites gather together in complete unity, the Divine Presence and the protective providence of God rest upon them [מצודת דוד, רד״ק, אברבנאל].