The concept of a "lodging place" in the Bible often refers to a temporary dwelling or resting spot for travelers, pilgrims, or those on a divine mission. It is a place of rest and refreshment, often provided by God's providence or through the hospitality of others. The lodging place serves as a significant motif in biblical narratives, symbolizing God's provision, protection, and the transient nature of earthly life.

Old Testament References

1. Jacob's Encounter at Bethel: One of the most notable lodging places in the Old Testament is Bethel, where Jacob rested during his journey from Beersheba to Haran. In Genesis 28:11-12 , it is recorded, "When Jacob reached a certain place, he spent the night there because the sun had set. Taking one of the stones from that place, he put it under his head and lay down to sleep. And Jacob had a dream about a ladder that rested on the earth with its top reaching up to heaven, and God’s angels were going up and down the ladder." This lodging place became a site of divine revelation and promise, marking it as a sacred space.

2. The Israelites in the Wilderness: During the Exodus, the Israelites experienced numerous lodging places as they journeyed through the wilderness. Numbers 33 provides a detailed itinerary of their encampments, each serving as a temporary lodging place where God provided for their needs. These stops were marked by God's guidance through the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night (Exodus 13:21-22).

3. Rahab's House in Jericho: In Joshua 2, the spies sent by Joshua to scout Jericho found a lodging place in the house of Rahab. This location became a place of refuge and protection, as Rahab hid the spies from the king's men. Her faith and hospitality were instrumental in the Israelites' conquest of Jericho, and her house became a symbol of God's deliverance and the inclusion of Gentiles into His covenant community.

New Testament References

1. The Birth of Jesus: The lodging place where Jesus was born is a significant element of the nativity account. Luke 2:7 states, "And she gave birth to her firstborn, a Son. She wrapped Him in swaddling cloths and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn." The humble setting of a manger highlights the theme of God's presence in the ordinary and the fulfillment of prophecy in unexpected ways.

2. The Good Samaritan: In the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus describes a lodging place as a site of compassion and care. Luke 10:34 recounts, "He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him." The inn serves as a place of healing and restoration, emphasizing the call to love and serve one's neighbor.

3. Paul's Journeys: The Apostle Paul frequently relied on lodging places during his missionary journeys. Acts 16:15 mentions Lydia's hospitality in Philippi: "And when she and her household had been baptized, she urged us, 'If you consider me a believer in the Lord, come and stay at my house.' And she persuaded us." Such lodging places were crucial for the spread of the Gospel and the establishment of early Christian communities.

Symbolic and Theological Significance

The lodging place in biblical literature often symbolizes the transient nature of human life and the believer's journey toward a heavenly home. Hebrews 11:13-16 reflects on the patriarchs' faith, stating, "They admitted that they were strangers and exiles on the earth... they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one." This perspective encourages believers to view earthly lodging places as temporary, with the ultimate hope resting in eternal life with God.

Throughout Scripture, lodging places are depicted as sites of divine encounter, provision, and community. They remind believers of God's faithfulness and the importance of hospitality, service, and trust in His guidance.