Judges 19:11

And when they were by Jebus, the day was far spent; and the servant said unto his master, Come, I pray thee, and let us turn in into this city of the Jebusites, and lodge in it.

Judges 19:11 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to a dark narrative in Judges 19, a time of moral decay in Israel. A Levite from the hill country of Ephraim, his concubine, and a servant are returning home after a stay in Bethlehem. As they approach Jebus, the day is far spent, meaning late afternoon or early evening.

Jebus was the ancient name for Jerusalem, but at this time it was still a Jebusite city, not yet under Israelite control. The servant, speaking respectfully, urges his master to turn aside and lodge there for the night. His words show practical wisdom: travelers needed shelter before darkness made the road unsafe.

Meaning

The servant’s address, “Come, I pray thee,” reflects a proper attitude toward his master. He recognizes the danger of being caught in unfamiliar territory after dark, a concern obvious to ancient travelers. The verse highlights the importance of heeding wise counsel in daily decisions.

The Levite, however, refuses this suggestion and continues to Gibeah. There they find lodging with an old man, but a wicked mob surrounds the house, demanding the Levite. He sends out his concubine, who is abused all night and dies. The servant’s prudent advice, if followed, might have spared them this tragedy.

Biblical connections

Jebus, the city the servant wanted to enter, later became Jerusalem after David conquered it (2 Samuel 5:6-7). This contrast between its current state as a Jebusite stronghold and its future role as the city of God reveals God’s redemptive purposes working through human failure.

Application

This verse reminds readers to value sound counsel. The servant’s suggestion was practical and reasonable, but the master’s decision led to disaster. Listening to prudent advice can prevent unnecessary harm in everyday life.

Reflection

Judges 19 paints a grim picture of lawlessness and the absence of righteous leadership. The events show the consequences of a society that has turned from God’s principles. This passage points to the deep need for a people grounded in God’s ways, a need ultimately met in Christ.