Judges 19:19

Yet there is both straw and provender for our asses; and there is bread and wine also for me, and for thy handmaid, and for the young man which is with thy servants: there is no want of any thing.

Judges 19:19 (KJV)

Context

This verse sits inside a larger story in Judges 19. A Levite from the hill country of Ephraim travels to Bethlehem to bring back his concubine, who had left him. After staying with her father for several days, they set out for home. As evening comes, they reach Gibeah, a city of the tribe of Benjamin. They plan to sleep in the city square, but no one offers them shelter until an old man from the mountains invites them into his house.

The Levite speaks these words to the old man. He explains that he and his party have enough supplies for themselves and their animals. They need only a place to stay for the night. In ancient Near Eastern culture, travelers often carried their own food and fodder, so asking for lodging was a simple and reasonable request.

Meaning

The Levite lists what they have: straw and provender for the donkeys, and bread and wine for himself, the concubine, and the young servant. The word “provender” means animal feed, such as grain or hay. By saying “there is no want of any thing,” he makes clear that he is not asking for material help. His only need is safety and shelter for the night.

This statement also shows courtesy. The Levite does not want to burden his host. He assures the old man that he can provide for his own group. This makes the request modest and honorable, and it highlights the old man’s kindness in welcoming them.

Biblical connections

The contrast between the old man’s hospitality and the wickedness of Gibeah’s men becomes clear later in the chapter. The men of the city demand to abuse the Levite, similar to the sin of Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis 19. The old man’s generous welcome stands against the cruel and violent behavior of the townspeople.

This connection shows the moral decline in Israel during the time of the judges. The people had turned away from God’s ways, and even basic hospitality had become rare. The Levite’s simple request for shelter exposes the hardness of the city’s heart.

Application

This verse teaches the value of hospitality. Believers are called to welcome strangers and meet their needs, just as the old man did. The Levite’s example also reminds us to be considerate, not demanding more than necessary from those who help us.

Hospitality is more than providing food or a bed. It is an act of love that protects and honors others. In a world where many are vulnerable, showing kindness to travelers and outsiders reflects the heart of God.

Reflection

Consider how you treat those who come to you in need. Do you offer help freely, or do you turn away? The old man’s open door stands as a quiet challenge to every reader. His simple act of welcome becomes a light in a dark chapter, reminding us that faithfulness often appears in small, practical deeds.