But the man would not tary that night, but he rose vp and departed, and came ouer against Iebus (which is Ierusalem:) and there were with him two asses sadled, his concubine also was with him. Judges 19:10 (KJV)
Context and Background: The book of Judges is set in a period of Israel’s history after the death of Joshua, where the people of Israel were governed by judges who acted as both military and spiritual leaders. The book of Judges highlights a recurring cycle of disobedience, oppression, repentance, and deliverance.
Understanding the Verse: In Judges 19:10, the verse focuses on an unnamed Levite who is traveling with his concubine and two saddled donkeys. At this point in the story, the Levite and his concubine are on a journey and have arrived near Jebus (Jerusalem), but the Levite decides not to stay there for the night.
Significance of the Verse: This verse sets the stage for a series of events that unfold in Judges 19, which depicts a tragic and horrifying incident involving the Levite and his concubine. The Levite’s decision not to stay the night in Jebus (Jerusalem) becomes significant in the context of the story, as it leads them to seek shelter in the city of Gibeah, where they encounter great wickedness.
Historical and Geographical Significance: The mention of Jebus (Jerusalem) in this verse provides historical and geographical context. At this time, Jerusalem was still under the control of the Jebusites and had not yet become the capital city of Israel. The Levite chose to continue his journey because Jebus was “the city of a stranger, that is not of the children of Israel” (Judges 19:12), not due to encountered danger or lack of hospitality. The choice of the Levite to continue his journey rather than staying in Jerusalem highlights the danger and lack of hospitality they encountered in the city.
Moral Lessons and Application: While this particular verse does not convey a specific moral lesson in itself, the story it introduces serves as a stark reminder of the moral decline and corruption that existed during this period of Israel’s history. The tragic events that unfold later in Judges 19 highlight the importance of righteousness, hospitality, and seeking God’s guidance in our actions.
Overall, Judges 19:10 marks a turning point in the narrative of the Levite and his concubine, foreshadowing the dark events that follow. It reminds readers of the need for discernment and the potential consequences of decisions made along life’s journey.
