“And they turned aside thither, to go in and to lodge in Gibeah: and when he went in, he sat him down in a street of the city: for there was no man that took them into his house to lodging”
Context:The book of Judges chronicles a period in Israel’s history when they were governed by a series of judges. It was a time of moral and spiritual decline, characterized by cycles of disobedience, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. Judges 19 describes a shocking incident involving an unnamed Levite and his concubine.
Historical Background:At this time, there was no central government in Israel, and everyone did what was right in their own eyes (Judges 17:6). The Levite in this story lived in the hill country of Ephraim.
Lack of Hospitality:In this verse, the Levite and his concubine arrived in the city of Gibeah, hoping to find a place to stay for the night. However, they encountered a problem-the lack of hospitality. No one in the city was willing to offer them lodging or show them kindness. This is a stark departure from the cultural value of hospitality that was prevalent in the ancient Near East.
Symbolic Meaning:This incident of inhospitality symbolizes the moral decay and spiritual bankruptcy of the people of Israel during this time. It highlights the disregard for the value of caring for strangers and the vulnerable, as well as the breakdown of the social fabric.
Comparison to Sodom and Gomorrah:The refusal of the people of Gibeah to extend hospitality mirrors the account of Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis 19. In both cases, there is a city that becomes associated with wickedness and sexual immorality, and in both instances, strangers or travelers are mistreated.
Reflection on Society:This verse presents a sobering reflection on the state of society when people become indifferent to the needs of others. It serves as a warning against the erosion of compassion, empathy, and hospitality in our own lives and communities.
Application:As followers of God, we are called to exhibit kindness, compassion, and hospitality to those in need. The Bible repeatedly emphasizes the importance of caring for strangers and treating them with love (Leviticus 19:34, Matthew 25:35, Hebrews 13:2). We should strive to create a welcoming environment where all feel valued and loved.
Jesus’ Teaching:Jesus taught about the importance of hospitality and compassion. In the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), He emphasized the need to show mercy and care for others, even those outside our immediate community.
In summary, Judges 19:15 portrays a distressing incident of inhospitality, highlighting the moral decline of the Israelites during the time of the judges. It serves as a reminder of the significance of hospitality, compassion, and kindness, urging us to reflect on our own attitudes and actions toward others.
