Judges 19:9

When the man got up to depart with his concubine and his servant, his father-in-law, the girl's father, said to him, "Look, the day is drawing to a close. Please spend the night. See, the day is almost over. Spend the night here, that your heart may be merry. Then you can get up early tomorrow for your journey home."

Study Bible

When the man got up to depart
This phrase marks a pivotal moment of decision. The Hebrew root for "got up" (קוּם, qum) often signifies rising with purpose or intention. In the context of ancient Israel, travel was fraught with danger, and decisions to journey were not taken lightly. The Levite's intention to depart reflects a resolve to return to his own territory, yet it also foreshadows the unfolding events that will lead to tragedy. This moment of rising is both literal and symbolic, representing a transition from hospitality to the unknown.

with his concubine and his servant
The mention of the concubine and servant highlights the social and familial structures of the time. A concubine, though not a wife, held a significant role within the household, often providing companionship and bearing children. The Hebrew term for concubine (פִּילֶגֶשׁ, pilegesh) suggests a secondary status, yet her presence is central to the narrative. The servant, likely a bondservant, underscores the Levite's status and resources. This trio's journey reflects the interconnectedness of relationships and the responsibilities inherent in them.

his father-in-law, the girl’s father
The dual reference to the father-in-law and the girl's father emphasizes familial bonds and the cultural importance of hospitality. In ancient Near Eastern societies, the father-in-law's role was crucial in maintaining alliances and ensuring the well-being of his daughter. The repetition of "father" underscores the protective and authoritative role he plays, as well as the deep familial ties that influence the Levite's decisions.

said to him, 'Look, the day is drawing to a close.'
The father-in-law's words are a plea grounded in concern and wisdom. The phrase "drawing to a close" (עָרַב, arab) in Hebrew conveys the idea of evening approaching, a time when travel becomes perilous. This reflects the cultural understanding of time and the natural rhythms of life, where daylight dictated safety and movement. The father-in-law's urging is a reminder of the dangers that lurk in the darkness, both literal and metaphorical.

Please spend the night
This invitation is an expression of hospitality, a core value in biblical times. The Hebrew word for "please" (נָא, na) conveys a sense of earnestness and urgency. Hospitality was not merely a social nicety but a moral obligation, reflecting God's own care and provision for His people. The father-in-law's insistence is a protective gesture, seeking to shield his guests from harm.

See, the day is coming to an end
Reiterating the lateness of the hour, this phrase serves as a gentle yet firm reminder of the practicalities of travel. The repetition underscores the urgency and the wisdom in heeding the natural order. In a spiritual sense, it invites reflection on the brevity of life and the importance of making wise choices within the time allotted to us.

Spend the night here and enjoy yourself
The offer to "enjoy yourself" (טוֹב, tov) is an invitation to rest and partake in the blessings of fellowship and safety. The Hebrew concept of "good" encompasses well-being, prosperity, and joy. This reflects the biblical ideal of shalom, a state of peace and completeness that God desires for His people. The father-in-law's invitation is a call to embrace the present moment and the gifts it holds.

Then you can get up early tomorrow for your journey home
This assurance of an early departure underscores the father-in-law's respect for the Levite's intentions while prioritizing safety. The promise of a fresh start in the morning symbolizes hope and renewal. In the biblical narrative, journeys often represent spiritual pilgrimages, with "home" (בַּיִת, bayit) symbolizing a place of belonging and divine promise. This parting assurance is a reminder of God's guidance and provision on life's journey.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Levite
A central figure in this account, the Levite is traveling with his concubine. His actions and decisions are pivotal to the unfolding events in Judges 19.

2. The Concubine
The Levite's concubine, whose tragic fate becomes a catalyst for the events that follow in the account.

3. The Father-in-law
The father of the concubine, who shows hospitality to the Levite and his daughter, urging them to stay longer.

4. Gibeah
A town in the territory of Benjamin where the Levite and his concubine seek shelter, leading to the subsequent events of violence and moral decay.

5. Bethlehem
The initial setting where the Levite goes to retrieve his concubine, and where the father-in-law resides.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Hospitality
The account underscores the biblical value of hospitality. As Christians, we are called to welcome and care for others, reflecting God's love and grace.

Moral Decay and Its Consequences
The events in Gibeah serve as a warning about the dangers of moral decline and the societal impact of turning away from God's commandments.

The Role of Leadership
The Levite's actions and decisions highlight the responsibility of leaders to act justly and righteously, as their choices can have far-reaching consequences.

The Need for Godly Justice
The account calls believers to seek justice in accordance with God's standards, advocating for the oppressed and standing against evil.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the hospitality shown by the father-in-law contrast with the actions of the men of Gibeah, and what can we learn from this about biblical hospitality?

2. In what ways does the account of Judges 19 reflect the moral and spiritual state of Israel during the time of the Judges, and how can this inform our understanding of societal issues today?

3. How does the Levite's decision-making process throughout the chapter serve as a lesson for us in seeking God's guidance in our own decisions?

4. What parallels can be drawn between the events in Gibeah and the account of Sodom and Gomorrah, and how do these accounts together emphasize the need for repentance and divine justice?

5. How can we, as modern believers, apply the lessons of Judges 19 to advocate for justice and righteousness in our communities today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 19
The events in Gibeah echo the account of Sodom and Gomorrah, highlighting themes of hospitality, moral decay, and divine judgment.

Deuteronomy 10:19
This verse emphasizes the importance of showing love and hospitality to strangers, contrasting with the inhospitable actions of the men of Gibeah.

Romans 12:13
Encourages believers to practice hospitality, a principle that is starkly absent in the account of Judges 19.