Judges 19:18

The Levite replied, "We are traveling from Bethlehem in Judah to the remote hill country of Ephraim, where I am from. I went to Bethlehem in Judah, and now I am going to the house of the LORD; but no one has taken me into his home,

Study Bible

We are on our way
This phrase indicates a journey or pilgrimage, a common theme in the Bible where individuals or groups are often depicted as travelers or sojourners. The Hebrew root for "way" is "derek," which can mean a road, path, or journey. This reflects the broader biblical narrative of life as a journey towards God, emphasizing faith and trust in divine guidance.

from Bethlehem in Judah
Bethlehem, meaning "house of bread," is a significant location in biblical history, known as the birthplace of King David and later Jesus Christ. Its mention here situates the narrative within the tribal territory of Judah, highlighting the importance of lineage and heritage in Israelite society. Historically, Bethlehem was a small town, yet it played a pivotal role in God's redemptive plan.

to a remote area in the hill country of Ephraim
The hill country of Ephraim was a central region in Israel, known for its rugged terrain and strategic importance. Ephraim, one of the tribes of Israel, was often associated with leadership and strength. The mention of a "remote area" suggests isolation and vulnerability, setting the stage for the events that follow in the narrative.

where I am from
This phrase underscores the importance of identity and belonging in ancient Israelite culture. One's place of origin was closely tied to their family and tribal affiliations, which were crucial for social and religious identity. It also reflects the biblical theme of returning to one's roots or homeland.

I have been to Bethlehem in Judah
Repetition of Bethlehem emphasizes its significance in the story. The journey to and from Bethlehem may symbolize a search for provision or sustenance, as the town's name suggests. It also connects the narrative to the broader biblical theme of God's provision and faithfulness.

and now I am going to the house of the LORD
The "house of the LORD" refers to a place of worship, likely the tabernacle or a designated site for offering sacrifices. This phrase highlights the centrality of worship and devotion in the life of the Israelites. It reflects a desire to seek God's presence and favor, a recurring theme throughout Scripture.

But no one has taken me into his home
Hospitality was a vital aspect of ancient Near Eastern culture, and the lack of it here underscores the moral and social decay present in the narrative. This phrase highlights the failure of the community to uphold the values of kindness and generosity, which were expected of God's people. It serves as a critique of the society's spiritual state and foreshadows the tragic events that follow.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Levite
A central figure in this account, the Levite is traveling with his concubine and servant. His journey and actions set the stage for the events that follow.

2. Bethlehem in Judah
The starting point of the Levite's journey. Bethlehem is significant in biblical history as the birthplace of King David and later Jesus Christ.

3. Hill Country of Ephraim
The Levite's home region, representing a place of origin and identity. Ephraim is one of the tribes of Israel, often associated with leadership and prominence.

4. The House of the LORD
The Levite mentions his intention to go to the house of the LORD, indicating a religious or spiritual purpose in his journey.

5. Hospitality
The lack of hospitality shown to the Levite and his companions is a key theme, highlighting cultural expectations and the moral state of society at the time.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Hospitality
Hospitality is a biblical virtue that reflects God's love and care for others. As Christians, we are called to open our homes and hearts to those in need.

Moral Decline and Its Consequences
The lack of hospitality in Judges 19 is symptomatic of a broader moral decline. We must be vigilant in maintaining our moral and spiritual integrity in a world that often neglects these values.

Seeking God's Presence
The Levite's mention of going to the house of the LORD reminds us of the importance of seeking God's presence and guidance in our lives, especially during times of uncertainty.

Community Responsibility
The account challenges us to consider our responsibility to our community and the strangers within it. Are we living out our faith in practical ways that impact those around us?

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the Levite's journey from Bethlehem to Ephraim reflect the spiritual journey we are called to undertake as believers?

2. In what ways can we practice hospitality in our daily lives, and how does this reflect the character of Christ?

3. What lessons can we learn from the moral decline depicted in Judges 19, and how can we guard against similar issues in our own communities?

4. How does the concept of seeking the "house of the LORD" apply to our personal spiritual practices today?

5. Reflect on a time when you were shown hospitality or when you extended it to others. How did this experience impact your faith and relationships?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 19
The account of Lot and the visitors in Sodom parallels the hospitality theme, where Lot offers shelter to strangers, contrasting with the inhospitable behavior in Judges 19.

Luke 10:25-37
The Parable of the Good Samaritan emphasizes the importance of showing kindness and hospitality to strangers, a principle neglected in Judges 19.

Hebrews 13:2
This verse encourages believers to show hospitality, as some have entertained angels without knowing it, underscoring the spiritual significance of welcoming strangers.