Judges 20:4

So the Levite, the husband of the murdered woman, answered: "I and my concubine came to Gibeah in Benjamin to spend the night.

Study Bible

So the Levite, the husband of the murdered woman, answered
So the Levite
The term "Levite" refers to a member of the tribe of Levi, set apart for religious duties in Israel. The Levites were not given a specific territory like the other tribes but were scattered throughout Israel to serve in various religious capacities. This particular Levite's involvement in the narrative highlights the moral and spiritual decline in Israel during the time of the Judges. The Levites were meant to be spiritual leaders, yet this Levite's actions and circumstances reflect the chaos and lawlessness prevalent in the period.

the husband of the murdered woman
This phrase identifies the Levite as the husband, or more accurately, the concubine's master, as the Hebrew term used can imply a lesser status than a full wife. The tragic reference to "the murdered woman" underscores the gravity of the crime committed against her, which serves as a catalyst for the ensuing conflict. The murder of the concubine is a stark illustration of the societal breakdown and the lack of justice and protection for the vulnerable, which were supposed to be upheld by the covenant community.

answered
The act of answering implies a response to a preceding inquiry or accusation. In this context, the Levite is responding to the assembly of the Israelites who have gathered to address the heinous crime committed in Gibeah. His answer is not just a personal defense but a call to the nation to recognize and rectify the moral decay that has led to such an atrocity. The Levite's response is pivotal, as it sets the stage for the collective action of the tribes of Israel, highlighting the communal responsibility to uphold justice and righteousness according to God's law.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Levite
A member of the tribe of Levi, set apart for religious duties. In this context, he is the husband of the murdered woman and the central figure recounting the events that led to the conflict.

2. The Concubine
The Levite's secondary wife, whose tragic death is the catalyst for the events in Judges 20. Her mistreatment and murder highlight the moral decay in Israel at the time.

3. Gibeah
A town in the territory of Benjamin. It is the location where the Levite and his concubine sought refuge but instead encountered violence and immorality.

4. Benjamin
One of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribe is implicated in the crime against the Levite's concubine, leading to a civil war with the other tribes of Israel.

5. The Assembly of Israel
The gathering of the tribes of Israel to address the atrocity committed in Gibeah. This assembly seeks justice and reflects the communal responsibility to uphold righteousness.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Moral Decay
The events in Gibeah serve as a stark reminder of what happens when a society turns away from God's laws. It calls believers to uphold biblical values in their communities.

The Role of Justice in Community
The assembly of Israel demonstrates the importance of seeking justice and addressing sin within the community. Christians are called to be agents of justice and reconciliation.

The Importance of Hospitality
The failure of Gibeah to provide safe hospitality contrasts with biblical teachings on welcoming strangers. Believers are encouraged to practice hospitality as an expression of God's love.

The Impact of Leadership
The absence of strong, godly leadership in Israel during this time led to chaos and moral decline. This underscores the need for righteous leadership in both the church and society.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of the Levite and his concubine in Gibeah reflect the spiritual state of Israel during the time of the Judges?

2. In what ways can the church today ensure that justice is upheld within its community, drawing from the response of the assembly of Israel?

3. How does the parallel between Gibeah and Sodom and Gomorrah challenge us to examine our own communities and their adherence to God's standards?

4. What lessons can we learn about the importance of hospitality from the events in Judges 20, and how can we apply these lessons in our daily lives?

5. Considering the lack of leadership in Israel during this time, how can Christians today cultivate and support godly leadership in their churches and communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 19
The events in Gibeah parallel the account of Sodom and Gomorrah, highlighting themes of hospitality, immorality, and divine justice.

Deuteronomy 22
Discusses laws regarding marriage and sexual conduct, providing a backdrop for understanding the gravity of the crime against the concubine.

Romans 1
Paul speaks of the consequences of turning away from God, which can be seen in the moral decline evident in the events of Judges 20.