Judges 18:22

22 After they were some distance from Micah's house, the men who were in the houses near it mobilized and caught up with the Danites.

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 So the priest was pleased and took his ephod, household idols, and carved image, and went with the people.

21 They prepared to leave, putting their small children, livestock, and possessions in front of them.

22 After they were some distance from Micah's house, the men who were in the houses near it mobilized and caught up with the Danites.

23 They called to the Danites, who turned to face them, and said to Micah, "What's the matter with you that you mobilized [the men]?"

24 He said, "You took the gods I had made and the priest, and went away. What do I have left? How can you say to me, 'What's the matter with you?' "