Judges 19:22

While they were enjoying themselves, suddenly the wicked men of the city surrounded the house. Pounding on the door, they said to the old man who owned the house, "Bring out the man who came to your house, so we can have relations with him!"

Study Bible

While they were enjoying themselves
This phrase sets the scene of a seemingly peaceful and hospitable environment. The Hebrew root for "enjoying" (שָׂמַח, samach) often conveys a sense of joy or celebration. In the context of ancient Israelite culture, hospitality was a sacred duty, and sharing a meal was a sign of fellowship and peace. However, this moment of enjoyment is about to be shattered, highlighting the stark contrast between the intended peace of the host and the impending violence.

some wicked men of the city
The term "wicked men" (בְּנֵי בְלִיַּעַל, bene beliyaal) is significant. "Beliyaal" is often translated as "worthless" or "lawless," indicating a deep moral corruption. In the historical context of the Judges period, Israel was in a cycle of sin and chaos, with each man doing what was right in his own eyes (Judges 21:25). These men embody the moral decay prevalent in the society at that time.

surrounded the house
The act of surrounding the house is aggressive and threatening. In ancient Near Eastern culture, the home was a place of refuge and safety. By surrounding the house, these men are violating the sanctity and security that a home was supposed to provide. This action foreshadows the violence and lawlessness that are about to unfold.

pounded on the door
The pounding on the door is an act of intimidation and force. Doors in ancient times were often made of wood and served as the primary barrier between the safety of the home and the dangers outside. The aggressive pounding signifies an urgent and hostile demand, breaking the peace of the household.

shouted to the old man who owned the house
The old man represents the head of the household, a figure of authority and protection. In the cultural context, elders were respected and their homes were places of refuge. The fact that these men are shouting at him shows a blatant disregard for social norms and respect for authority.

Bring out the man who came to your house
This demand is a direct violation of the sacred duty of hospitality. In ancient Israel, guests were to be protected at all costs. The demand to bring out the guest is not only an affront to the host but also a severe breach of the cultural and moral code of the time.

so we can have relations with him
This phrase reveals the depravity and violent intent of the men. The Hebrew word used here (יָדַע, yada) can mean "to know," but in this context, it implies sexual violence. This mirrors the sin of Sodom (Genesis 19), drawing a parallel to the extreme moral corruption that led to divine judgment. The request is not just an act of violence against the individual but an assault on the very fabric of societal and divine order.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Levite
A central figure in this account, the Levite is traveling with his concubine. His actions and decisions play a crucial role in the unfolding events.

2. The Concubine
The Levite's concubine, who is tragically victimized in this account, highlighting the severe moral decline in Israel during this period.

3. The Old Man
An Ephraimite living in Gibeah who offers hospitality to the Levite and his concubine, demonstrating a contrast between his kindness and the wickedness of the townspeople.

4. The Men of Gibeah
Residents of the Benjamite town of Gibeah, whose actions reflect the moral corruption prevalent in Israel at the time.

5. Gibeah
A town in the territory of Benjamin, where the events of Judges 19:22 take place, illustrating the lawlessness and depravity in Israel.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Moral Relativism
The account in Judges 19:22 illustrates the dangers of a society where there is no absolute moral standard, leading to chaos and suffering.

The Importance of Godly Leadership
The absence of strong, godly leadership in Israel during this time resulted in moral decay, emphasizing the need for leaders who uphold God's laws.

Hospitality and Protection
The old man's offer of hospitality contrasts with the wickedness of the townspeople, reminding believers of the biblical call to protect and care for others.

The Depravity of Sin
The actions of the men of Gibeah serve as a stark reminder of the depths of human sinfulness when people turn away from God.

The Need for Repentance and Restoration
This account underscores the need for repentance and turning back to God to restore righteousness and justice in society.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Judges 19:22 reflect the overall spiritual condition of Israel during the time of the Judges, and what lessons can we learn about the importance of following God's laws?

2. In what ways does the account of Judges 19:22 parallel the account of Sodom and Gomorrah, and what does this tell us about the nature of sin and God's judgment?

3. How can the actions of the old man in offering hospitality and protection serve as a model for Christians today in showing love and care for others?

4. What are the dangers of moral relativism as seen in Judges 19:22, and how can Christians uphold biblical truth in a society that often rejects absolute moral standards?

5. How does the absence of godly leadership contribute to the events in Judges 19:22, and what qualities should we look for in leaders within the church and community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 19
The events in Judges 19:22 parallel the account of Sodom and Gomorrah, where the men of the city also sought to commit grievous sin against visitors, highlighting a recurring theme of human depravity.

Romans 1
This passage discusses the consequences of turning away from God, which can be seen in the moral decay and lawlessness depicted in Judges 19.

Deuteronomy 12:8
This verse warns against doing what is right in one's own eyes, a theme that is evident in the chaotic and sinful behavior of the Israelites during the time of the Judges.