“And her husband arose, and went after her, to speak friendly unto her, and to bring her again, having his servant with him, and a couple of asses: and she brought him into her father’s house: and when the father of the damsel saw him, he rejoiced to meet him.”
Context:The book of Judges is a historical account of Israel after the death of Joshua. It describes a period of spiritual and moral decline among the Israelites, marked by cycles of disobedience, oppression, repentance, and deliverance.
Setting:Judges 19 recounts a tragic incident known as the Levite’s Concubine, taking place during the time when Israel had no king. The story begins with a Levite who travels to Bethlehem to retrieve his concubine, who had left him and returned to her father’s house.
Husband’s response:In verse 3, we see the husband’s reaction to his concubine’s departure. He arises and decides to go after her, intending to speak kindly to her and bring her back. This demonstrates his concern for his wife and his desire to reconcile with her. He brings along a servant and a couple of donkeys for the journey.
Rejoicing of the father:As the husband arrives at the father’s house, the father of the concubine sees him and rejoices to meet him. The father’s joy could indicate that he is pleased to see his daughter’s husband taking the initiative to reconcile with her, or it might reflect cultural expectations of hospitality and reconciliation.
Lessons and application:
Commitment and reconciliation:The husband’s response in pursuing his wife despite her leaving serves as an example of commitment and the importance of seeking reconciliation within marriage. It shows that even in difficult circumstances, it is vital to pursue peace and restoration.
The importance of communication:The husband’s intention to speak kindly to his wife highlights the significance of open and respectful communication in resolving conflicts. This reminds us to approach difficult conversations with love and understanding, seeking understanding and reconciliation rather than hostility or blame.
The power of hospitality:The father’s rejoicing to meet the husband teaches us about the value of hospitality and extending grace to others, especially in challenging situations. It underscores the potential for healing and restoration when families and communities embrace reconciliation with open arms.
Remember that the Bible contains various stories and passages that reflect the realities of the time they were written in, including the cultural and historical context. It is essential to approach these passages with sensitivity and seek broader understanding of the biblical narrative as a whole.
