Judges 19:16

That evening an old man from the hill country of Ephraim, who was residing in Gibeah (the men of that place were Benjamites), came in from his work in the field.

Study Bible

That evening
The timing of events in biblical narratives often holds significance. Evening in ancient Israel was a time of transition, marking the end of the day's labor and the beginning of rest. It was also a time when travelers sought shelter, as night travel was dangerous. This sets the stage for the unfolding events, emphasizing the urgency and vulnerability of the situation.

an old man from the hill country of Ephraim
The hill country of Ephraim was a central region in Israel, known for its rugged terrain and significant biblical history. Ephraim was one of the tribes of Israel, descended from Joseph's son. The mention of the old man being from Ephraim highlights the tribal connections and tensions present in the narrative. It also suggests a sense of hospitality and kinship, as the old man might feel a connection to the Levite, who was also from Ephraim.

who was residing in Gibeah
Gibeah was a city in the territory of Benjamin, notorious for the events that unfold in this chapter. The old man's residence in Gibeah, despite being from Ephraim, indicates a possible displacement or migration, common in the period of the Judges when tribal boundaries were fluid. This detail foreshadows the conflict between the tribes of Israel and Benjamin that arises later.

(the men of that place were Benjamites)
The parenthetical note emphasizes the tribal identity of Gibeah's inhabitants. The Benjamites were one of the twelve tribes of Israel, known for their warrior skills. This detail is crucial for understanding the ensuing conflict, as the actions of the men of Gibeah lead to a civil war between the tribe of Benjamin and the other tribes of Israel.

came in from his work in the field
The old man's return from the field suggests a life of labor and simplicity, typical of agrarian societies in ancient Israel. Fields were essential for sustenance, and working them was a daily necessity. This detail underscores the normalcy and routine of life, contrasting sharply with the horrific events that follow. It also highlights the old man's industriousness and perhaps his isolation, as he is not part of the city's social fabric, which may explain his willingness to offer hospitality to the travelers.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Old Man from Ephraim
An elderly man who was originally from the hill country of Ephraim but was residing in Gibeah. His presence introduces a contrast between hospitality and the inhospitable nature of the Benjamites.

2. Hill Country of Ephraim
A region in Israel known for its rugged terrain and significant biblical history. It was the home of several notable figures, including Joshua and Samuel.

3. Gibeah
A town in the territory of Benjamin. It becomes the setting for the tragic events that follow, highlighting the moral decay within Israel.

4. Benjamites
The tribe of Benjamin, known for their warrior skills. In this context, they are depicted as morally corrupt, setting the stage for the conflict that ensues.

5. Evening Arrival
The timing of the old man's arrival underscores the urgency and vulnerability of the situation, as evening was a time when travelers sought shelter.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Hospitality
The old man's willingness to offer shelter contrasts with the inhospitable nature of the Benjamites. Christians are called to practice hospitality, reflecting God's love and care.

Moral Decay and Its Consequences
The events in Gibeah serve as a warning of the dangers of moral decay within a community. Believers must uphold righteousness and justice.

The Role of the Stranger
The old man, a stranger in Gibeah, becomes a vessel of God's provision. God often uses unexpected people to fulfill His purposes.

Community Responsibility
The actions of the Benjamites reflect on the entire community. Christians are called to hold each other accountable and promote godly living.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the old man's hospitality in Judges 19:16 challenge us to reflect on our own attitudes towards strangers and guests?

2. In what ways does the moral decay in Gibeah serve as a warning for contemporary society, and how can we guard against similar issues in our communities?

3. How does the account of the old man from Ephraim connect with the broader biblical theme of God using unlikely individuals to accomplish His purposes?

4. What lessons can we learn from the contrast between the old man's actions and the behavior of the Benjamites regarding community responsibility and accountability?

5. How can we apply the principles of hospitality and righteousness found in Judges 19:16 to our daily lives, and what other scriptures support these principles?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

Judges 20
The subsequent chapters detail the consequences of the events in Gibeah, leading to civil war within Israel, emphasizing the need for justice and righteousness.

Hebrews 13:2
This verse encourages believers to show hospitality, reminding us that some have entertained angels without knowing it, contrasting the lack of hospitality in Gibeah.