Judges 19:12

But his master replied, "We will not turn aside to the city of foreigners, where there are no Israelites. We will go on to Gibeah."

Study Bible

But his master replied
This phrase introduces the Levite, who is the central figure in this narrative. The term "master" indicates his authority over his servant, reflecting the social hierarchy of ancient Israel. The Levite's role is significant as he represents the religious leadership of the time, which is often depicted as flawed in the Book of Judges.

We will not turn aside to the city of foreigners
The Levite's decision not to enter a city of foreigners highlights the tension between Israelites and non-Israelites. This reflects the Israelites' concern for maintaining cultural and religious purity, as interactions with foreigners often led to idolatry and moral corruption, a recurring theme in Judges.

where there are no Israelites
This phrase underscores the Levite's desire to remain within the community of God's chosen people. It reflects the importance of tribal and national identity in ancient Israel. The absence of Israelites in a city would imply a lack of shared values and covenantal faithfulness, which the Levite seeks to avoid.

We will go on to Gibeah
Gibeah, a city in the territory of Benjamin, is chosen as a destination because it is an Israelite city. This decision is ironic, as Gibeah becomes the setting for a grievous sin against the Levite's concubine, leading to civil war. The choice of Gibeah foreshadows the moral decay within Israel itself, despite the Levite's attempt to avoid foreign influence. This narrative echoes the broader theme of Judges, where Israel's internal corruption is as dangerous as external threats.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Levite
A central figure in this account, the Levite is traveling with his concubine and servant. His decision-making and actions are pivotal to the unfolding events.

2. The Concubine
The Levite's concubine, whose tragic fate becomes a catalyst for the subsequent events in Israel.

3. The Servant
Accompanies the Levite and the concubine on their journey, offering practical suggestions during their travels.

4. Jebus (Jerusalem)
At this time, a city not yet fully under Israelite control, inhabited by the Jebusites, considered foreigners by the Levite.

5. Gibeah
A city of the tribe of Benjamin, chosen by the Levite as a place to stay, believing it to be safer due to its Israelite inhabitants.

Teaching Points

Discernment in Decision-Making
The Levite's choice to avoid a foreign city reflects a desire for safety among his own people. This highlights the importance of seeking godly wisdom and discernment in our decisions.

Community and Belonging
The Levite's preference for an Israelite city underscores the value of community and shared faith. Believers are encouraged to seek fellowship and accountability within the body of Christ.

The Illusion of Safety
Despite the Levite's intentions, Gibeah proves to be unsafe. This serves as a reminder that true security is found in God, not merely in human associations or assumptions.

Hospitality and Responsibility
The account challenges us to consider our own hospitality and how we treat others, especially those within the household of faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the Levite's decision to avoid Jebus reveal about his priorities and concerns? How can we apply this discernment in our own lives?

2. How does the account of Gibeah in Judges 19 parallel the events in Sodom and Gomorrah? What lessons can we learn about the consequences of moral decay?

3. In what ways does the Levite's reliance on his own people for safety reflect our need for community? How can we strengthen our connections within the church?

4. How does the outcome in Gibeah challenge our assumptions about where we find safety and security? What scriptures remind us of God's protection?

5. Reflect on the role of hospitality in this account. How can we practice biblical hospitality in our daily lives, and what scriptures guide us in this endeavor?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 19
The account of Sodom and Gomorrah shares thematic elements with Judges 19, particularly regarding hospitality and moral decay.

Deuteronomy 23:3-6
Provides context on the Israelites' view of foreign cities and peoples, influencing the Levite's decision to avoid Jebus.

Joshua 15:63
Mentions the Jebusites' continued presence in Jerusalem, highlighting the incomplete conquest of the land.