The narrative of "The Concubine Leaves" is found in the Book of Judges, specifically in Judges 19. This account is a part of the larger narrative cycle concerning the moral and social decline of Israel during the time of the judges, a period marked by the absence of centralized leadership and the repeated refrain, "In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes" (Judges 21:25).

Context and Background

The account of the concubine is set in the tribal period of Israel's history, a time characterized by decentralized governance and frequent apostasy. The narrative begins with a Levite from the hill country of Ephraim who takes a concubine from Bethlehem in Judah. The term "concubine" in ancient Israel refers to a woman who, while not a wife, is in a recognized relationship with a man, often for the purpose of bearing children and maintaining household duties. This relationship, though legitimate, did not afford the concubine the full status of a wife.

The Departure of the Concubine

The account begins with the concubine leaving the Levite and returning to her father's house in Bethlehem. The text states, "But she was unfaithful to him and left him to return to her father’s house in Bethlehem in Judah" (Judges 19:2). The reasons for her departure are not explicitly detailed, leading to various interpretations. Some suggest marital discord or dissatisfaction, while others propose infidelity or a breach of duty.

The Levite's Pursuit

After four months, the Levite decides to retrieve his concubine. He travels to Bethlehem, where he is warmly received by her father. The father-in-law's hospitality is emphasized, as he persuades the Levite to stay for several days. This hospitality reflects the cultural norms of the time, where the treatment of guests was a matter of honor and social obligation.

The Journey and the Tragic Events in Gibeah

Upon leaving Bethlehem, the Levite, his concubine, and his servant travel toward the hill country of Ephraim. As night falls, they decide to lodge in Gibeah, a town of the Benjamites. The narrative takes a dark turn when the travelers are initially ignored by the townspeople, highlighting a breach of the hospitality customs. Eventually, an old man offers them shelter.

The events that follow are reminiscent of the account of Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis 19. The men of Gibeah, described as "wicked men" (Judges 19:22), surround the house, demanding to have relations with the Levite. In a tragic and morally disturbing decision, the Levite sends out his concubine to the mob to protect himself. The concubine is brutally abused throughout the night and dies on the doorstep of the house.

The Aftermath and Israel's Response

The Levite's response to the atrocity is to dismember the concubine's body and send the pieces throughout the tribes of Israel. This gruesome act serves as a call to arms, rallying the tribes to address the heinous crime committed in Gibeah. The narrative underscores the moral decay and lawlessness prevalent in Israel at the time.

The subsequent chapters detail the Israelites' response, which leads to a civil war against the tribe of Benjamin. The conflict results in significant loss of life and highlights the destructive consequences of sin and the absence of righteous leadership.

Theological and Moral Implications

The account of the concubine in Judges 19 serves as a stark illustration of the moral and spiritual decline of Israel. It reflects the consequences of a society that has turned away from God's covenant and the law. The narrative challenges readers to consider the importance of justice, hospitality, and the protection of the vulnerable. It also serves as a somber reminder of the need for godly leadership and adherence to divine principles to prevent societal decay.