Judges 19:4

His father-in-law, the girl's father, persuaded him to stay, so he remained with him three days, eating, drinking, and lodging there.

Study Bible

His father-in-law, the girl’s father
In ancient Israelite culture, family relationships were central to social structure. The father-in-law's role was significant, often involving negotiations and hospitality. This reflects the patriarchal society where the father had authority over family matters. The mention of "the girl's father" emphasizes the familial bond and the importance of marriage alliances in maintaining social and economic stability.

persuaded him to stay
Hospitality was a crucial aspect of ancient Near Eastern culture. The act of persuasion indicates the father-in-law's desire to extend hospitality, which was a sign of respect and goodwill. This reflects the cultural norm of treating guests with honor and ensuring their comfort, as seen in other biblical narratives like Abraham's hospitality to the three visitors in Genesis 18.

so he remained with him three days
The number three often signifies completeness or divine perfection in the Bible. Staying three days could symbolize a complete period of rest and fellowship. This duration allowed for the strengthening of family ties and the fulfillment of social obligations. It also mirrors other biblical events where three days are significant, such as Jonah in the belly of the fish or Jesus in the tomb.

eating, drinking, and lodging there
These activities highlight the customs of hospitality and fellowship. Sharing meals was a way to build and affirm relationships. Eating and drinking together were acts of peace and friendship, often seen in covenant-making contexts. Lodging indicates the provision of shelter and safety, which were essential aspects of hospitality in a time when travel could be dangerous. This phrase underscores the importance of community and the provision of basic needs within a familial setting.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Levite
A man from the tribe of Levi, who is central to the account in Judges 19. He is traveling with his concubine and servant.

2. The Concubine
The Levite's concubine, who had left him and returned to her father's house in Bethlehem in Judah.

3. The Father-in-law
The concubine's father, who warmly welcomes the Levite and persuades him to stay longer.

4. Bethlehem in Judah
The town where the concubine's father lives and where the Levite goes to retrieve her.

5. The Event
The Levite's extended stay at his father-in-law's house, which is marked by hospitality and repeated invitations to remain longer.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Hospitality
Hospitality is a recurring theme in the Bible, reflecting God's welcoming nature. As believers, we are called to extend hospitality to others, reflecting God's love and grace.

The Dangers of Delay
The Levite's extended stay, while seemingly harmless, sets the stage for later events. This teaches us to be mindful of how delays and distractions can lead us away from God's intended path.

Family Reconciliation
The Levite's journey to reconcile with his concubine highlights the importance of seeking reconciliation in relationships. As Christians, we are called to be peacemakers and to pursue reconciliation actively.

Cultural Context and Biblical Narratives
Understanding the cultural context of biblical accounts, such as the significance of hospitality, enriches our comprehension of Scripture and its application to our lives today.

God's Sovereignty Amidst Human Actions
Even in accounts where human actions seem to dominate, God's sovereignty is at work. We can trust that God is in control, even when circumstances appear chaotic.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the hospitality shown by the father-in-law in Judges 19:4 compare to other biblical examples of hospitality, and what can we learn from these examples?

2. In what ways can delays or distractions in our lives lead us away from God's plans, and how can we remain focused on His will?

3. How does the Levite's journey to reconcile with his concubine challenge us to pursue reconciliation in our own relationships?

4. What cultural practices from biblical times, such as hospitality, can we incorporate into our modern Christian walk to better reflect Christ's love?

5. How can we trust in God's sovereignty when human actions and decisions seem to lead to negative outcomes, as seen in the broader account of Judges 19?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 19
The hospitality shown by Lot to the angels in Sodom parallels the father-in-law's hospitality, highlighting the cultural importance of hospitality in ancient times.

Luke 10:38-42
The account of Mary and Martha, where hospitality is also a theme, can be contrasted with the Levite's experience to explore different expressions of hospitality.

Hebrews 13:2
This verse encourages believers to show hospitality, as some have entertained angels without knowing it, connecting to the broader biblical theme of hospitality.