Judges 19:15

They stopped to go in and lodge in Gibeah. The Levite went in and sat down in the city square, but no one would take them into his home for the night.

Study Bible

They stopped to go in and lodge in Gibeah.
Gibeah was a city in the territory of Benjamin, located north of Jerusalem. It is significant in biblical history as the hometown of King Saul (1 Samuel 10:26). The decision to lodge in Gibeah rather than a foreign city like Jebus (Jerusalem) reflects the expectation of hospitality among fellow Israelites. This expectation is rooted in the cultural and religious norms of ancient Israel, where hospitality was a sacred duty (Genesis 18:1-8). The failure of Gibeah's inhabitants to offer hospitality foreshadows the moral decay and lawlessness depicted in the subsequent narrative.

The Levite went in and sat down in the city square,
The Levite's presence in the city square indicates a common practice in ancient times where travelers would wait in public spaces to be offered lodging by local residents. This practice is seen in other biblical accounts, such as in Genesis 19:1-3 with Lot in Sodom. The Levite's role as a religious figure adds a layer of expectation for hospitality, as Levites were set apart for religious duties and often relied on the generosity of others (Deuteronomy 12:19).

but no one would take them into his home for the night.
The refusal of the townspeople to offer hospitality is a stark violation of cultural norms and highlights the moral decline in Israel during the time of the Judges, a period characterized by the repeated phrase, "In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as they saw fit" (Judges 21:25). This lack of hospitality contrasts sharply with the expected behavior of Israelites and serves as a prelude to the tragic events that follow. The narrative echoes the inhospitable actions of Sodom, drawing a parallel between Gibeah and the infamous city destroyed for its wickedness (Genesis 19). This incident underscores the need for righteous leadership and foreshadows the eventual establishment of monarchy in Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Levite
A central figure in this account, the Levite is traveling with his concubine and servant. His role as a Levite indicates a religious status, which makes the events that follow even more shocking.

2. The Concubine
The Levite's concubine, who plays a crucial role in the unfolding events. Her presence and treatment highlight the cultural and moral issues of the time.

3. The Servant
Accompanying the Levite and his concubine, the servant is part of the traveling party seeking hospitality.

4. Gibeah
A city in the territory of Benjamin. The lack of hospitality they encounter here sets the stage for the tragic events that follow.

5. The City Square
The public area where travelers would typically wait to be offered hospitality. The absence of such an offer in Gibeah is significant and foreshadows the moral decay present in the city.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Hospitality
Hospitality is a biblical mandate and reflects the heart of God. The failure of Gibeah to offer hospitality is a reflection of their spiritual and moral state.

Moral Decay and Its Consequences
The events in Gibeah serve as a warning of what happens when a society turns away from God's standards. It is a call for self-examination and repentance.

The Role of the Community
The community's responsibility to care for travelers and strangers is emphasized. Believers are called to be a light in their communities, offering kindness and hospitality.

The Dangers of Indifference
The indifference shown by the people of Gibeah can be a reflection of our own hearts if we are not careful. We must be vigilant in our love and care for others.

Reflecting Christ in Our Actions
As followers of Christ, our actions should reflect His love and compassion. Offering hospitality is one way to demonstrate the love of Christ to others.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the lack of hospitality in Gibeah reveal about the spiritual state of the city, and how can we apply this lesson to our own communities?

2. How does the account of Gibeah compare to the account of Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis 19, and what can we learn from these parallels?

3. In what ways can we practice hospitality in our daily lives, and how does this reflect the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 25:35-40?

4. How does Hebrews 13:2 challenge us to rethink our approach to strangers and guests, and what practical steps can we take to live out this command?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced or offered hospitality. How did it impact your understanding of community and God's love?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 19
The account of Lot in Sodom parallels the events in Gibeah, highlighting themes of hospitality and moral corruption.

Hebrews 13:2
This verse encourages believers to show hospitality, reminding us that some have entertained angels unawares, contrasting the inhospitable nature of Gibeah.

Matthew 25:35-40
Jesus speaks about the importance of hospitality and caring for strangers, which is a direct counter to the actions of the people of Gibeah.