“And they sat down, and did eat and drink both of them together: for the damsel’s father had said unto the man, Be content, I pray thee, and tarry all night, and let thine heart be merry.”
Context: The book of Judges provides a historical account of the period after Joshua’s leadership, during which Israel was governed by a series of judges. Judges 19 is a particularly dark and troubling chapter, recounting a tragic event that reflects the moral decline of the Israelites during this era.
Setting: The passage takes place in Gibeah, a city of the tribe of Benjamin. An unnamed Levite, his concubine, and his servant were traveling and sought hospitality for the night. They ended up staying at the house of an old man.
Hospitality: The concept of hospitality was highly valued in ancient Near Eastern cultures, including Israel. It was customary to provide shelter, food, and protection to travelers. In this passage, the Levite, his concubine, and servant were offered hospitality by the old man, who urged them to stay the night and enjoy a meal together.
The Father’s Invitation: The father of the damsel, referring to the old man, insisted that the Levite and his company stay overnight and partake in a festive meal. The father’s intention was to ensure their comfort and enjoyment, inviting them to be merry.
Cultural Norms: The cultural norms of the time emphasized the importance of generosity, especially towards travelers and strangers. It was considered customary to extend invitations and provide for the needs of guests. The father’s invitation aligns with these norms, showing kindness and hospitality.
Foreshadowing: Despite the apparent goodwill demonstrated by the father’s invitation, this passage serves as foreshadowing for the tragic events that unfold later in Judges 19. The subsequent verses reveal the horrifying mistreatment and abuse suffered by the concubine, which ultimately leads to civil war within Israel.
