שופטים, פרק כ׳, פסוק כ״ו

Following devastating failures in their previous battles, the Israelites experience a profound spiritual awakening and return to God with a whole heart. This mass gathering stems from a deep need to atone for their overconfidence in their physical strength and their previous attraction to idolatry. Additionally, they come to express gratitude for the survival of those who made it through the initial conflicts [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The emphasis on the presence of all the people highlights the absolute and universal nature of their participation [מצודת דוד].

The gathering takes place at a location referred to as Bethel, though its exact identity is debated. The primary approach among commentators is that this does not refer to the actual city of Luz, but rather to Shiloh, the permanent resting place of the Ark of the Covenant. In this context, the name functions as a description, meaning the "House of God." Their arrival at this sacred site underscores that, this time, their repentance is complete and entirely genuine. Consequently, their prayers, joined by the prayer of Phinehas, are accepted by God. Another perspective suggests that the Israelites actually bring the Ark of the Covenant to the city of Bethel, located near Shiloh. They do this to pray at the specific site where Jacob was blessed and where Benjamin was born, hoping to awaken ancestral merit. However, it is considered more likely that the Ark remains in its permanent home in Shiloh [רד״ק].

Upon arriving, the people linger at the site and engage in a period of fasting [מצודת ציון]. As an essential part of their repentance and atonement process, they offer specific sacrifices, each serving a distinct purpose. The burnt offerings are presented to appease God and find favor in His eyes, while the peace offerings are brought to restore harmony and create peace between the Israelites and their Father in Heaven [מצודת דוד].