Judges 19:28

"Get up," he told her. "Let us go." But there was no response. So the man put her on his donkey and set out for home.

Study Bible

Get up
This phrase is a command, an imperative that reflects urgency and authority. In the Hebrew text, the word used is "קוּם" (qum), which is often used in the Old Testament to denote rising or standing up, both physically and metaphorically. The use of this word here underscores the desperate situation and the expectation of immediate action. It is a call to awaken from a state of vulnerability or distress, which can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual awakening or revival in a broader biblical context.

he told her
This phrase indicates communication and relationship. The Hebrew verb "אָמַר" (amar) is used, which is a common term for speaking or saying. It suggests a direct and personal interaction. In the context of Judges 19, this communication is tragically one-sided, highlighting the brokenness and lack of true relationship. In a broader sense, it reminds us of the importance of compassionate and meaningful communication in our relationships, reflecting God's desire for us to speak truth and life to one another.

but there was no answer
This phrase conveys silence and absence of response, which is deeply poignant. The Hebrew word "עָנָה" (anah) means to answer or respond. The lack of response here is not just physical but also symbolic of the spiritual and moral decay present in Israel at the time. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the silence that can result from brokenness and separation from God. In a spiritual sense, it calls believers to be attentive to God's voice and to respond to His call, avoiding the spiritual deafness that sin can cause.

So the man put her on his donkey
This action is practical and necessary, yet it is filled with a sense of sorrow and resignation. The act of placing her on the donkey, a common beast of burden in ancient times, signifies a journey or transition. In the Hebrew context, donkeys were often used for travel and carrying loads, symbolizing the burdens we bear in life. This phrase can inspire reflection on how we carry the burdens of others, as Christ calls us to bear one another's burdens in love and compassion.

and set out for home
This phrase indicates a return, a movement towards a place of origin or belonging. The Hebrew concept of "home" (בַּיִת, bayit) is rich with meaning, often symbolizing safety, family, and rest. However, in this context, the journey home is overshadowed by tragedy and loss. It serves as a reminder of the ultimate home we have in God, a place of eternal rest and peace. Spiritually, it calls us to seek our true home in Christ, who offers us refuge and restoration amidst the brokenness of the world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Levite
A man from the tribe of Levi, who is central to this account. He is traveling with his concubine and servant.

2. The Concubine
The Levite's concubine, who has been brutally abused and is found unresponsive.

3. Gibeah
A town in the territory of Benjamin where the tragic events unfold.

4. The Old Man
A resident of Gibeah who offers hospitality to the Levite and his concubine.

5. The Benjamites
The men of Gibeah who commit the heinous act against the concubine.

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 and moral standards.

The Importance of Hospitality and Protection
The old man's initial act of hospitality contrasts sharply with the violence that follows, highlighting the biblical call to protect and care for others.

The Role of Leadership and Accountability
The Levite's actions, or lack thereof, raise questions about leadership and responsibility in times of crisis.

The Need for Justice and Righteousness
This passage underscores the necessity of justice and righteousness in a community, as the absence of these leads to chaos and suffering.

Reflecting on Our Own Communities
Encourages believers to examine their own communities for areas where moral decay might be present and to take action to uphold God's standards.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of the Levite and his concubine in Judges 19 reflect the moral state of Israel during the time of the Judges?

2. In what ways does the account of Judges 19 parallel the account of Sodom and Gomorrah, and what lessons can we draw from these similarities?

3. How can we apply the principles of hospitality and protection in our own lives and communities today?

4. What responsibilities do we have as Christians to address and prevent moral decay in our society?

5. How can we ensure that justice and righteousness are upheld in our communities, and what role does the church play in this effort?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 19
The account of Sodom and Gomorrah, where similar acts of violence and immorality occur, highlighting the depravity present in both accounts.

Deuteronomy 22:25-27
Discusses the laws regarding sexual violence, providing a backdrop for understanding the gravity of the crime committed in Judges 19.

Romans 1:24-32
Describes the consequences of turning away from God, which can lead to moral decay similar to what is seen in Gibeah.

Hosea 9:9
References the days of Gibeah, indicating the lasting infamy of the events described in Judges 19.