Judges 18:22

22 When the people from the tribe of Dan were quite a distance from Micah’s house, the people who lived near Micah came chasing after them.

Judges 18:22 Meaning and Commentary

Judges 18:22

And when they were a good way from the house of Micah
For it might be some time before Micah knew that his gods were stolen, and his priest was decoyed from him; and it must take up more time still to get his servants and neighbours together to pursue after those that injured him:

the men that were in the houses near to Micah's house were gathered
together;
no doubt at the request of Micah, who informed them of what had happened to him: and they being not only his neighbours, but deeply involved in the same superstition and idolatry, and closely addicted to it, and to whom it might in some respects be advantageous at it brought people from various parts to worship, or to consult the oracle: these being got together in a body, pursued

and overtook the children of Dan;
who were obliged to move but slowly, because of their wives, little ones, and heavy substance they carried with them.

Judges 18:22 In-Context

20 The young priest was quite happy to go with them, so he took along the sacred ephod, the household idols, and the carved image.

21 They turned and started on their way again, placing their children, livestock, and possessions in front of them.

22 When the people from the tribe of Dan were quite a distance from Micah’s house, the people who lived near Micah came chasing after them.

23 They were shouting as they caught up with them. The men of Dan turned around and said to Micah, “What’s the matter? Why have you called these men together and chased after us like this?”

24 “What do you mean, ‘What’s the matter?’” Micah replied. “You’ve taken away all the gods I have made, and my priest, and I have nothing left!”