Judges 19:6

So they sat down and the two of them ate and drank together. Then the girl's father said to the man, "Please agree to stay overnight and let your heart be merry."

Study Bible

So they sat down and the two of them ate and drank together.
In ancient Near Eastern culture, sharing a meal was a significant act of hospitality and fellowship. It symbolized peace and mutual respect between parties. This setting in Judges 19 reflects the customs of the time, where hospitality was a sacred duty, especially towards travelers. The act of eating and drinking together often signified the establishment or renewal of a covenant or agreement, as seen in Genesis 26:30, where Isaac makes a covenant with Abimelech. This phrase also highlights the importance of community and relationship, which are central themes throughout the Bible.

Then the girl’s father said to the man,
The girl's father, acting as the host, plays a crucial role in the narrative. In the patriarchal society of ancient Israel, the father was the head of the household and responsible for the well-being of his family and guests. His involvement in the conversation underscores the cultural norms of the time, where family heads negotiated and made decisions. This interaction can be compared to other biblical instances where fathers or patriarchs engage in negotiations or discussions, such as Laban with Jacob in Genesis 31.

“Please agree to stay overnight and let your heart be merry.”
The father's invitation to stay overnight and enjoy oneself reflects the cultural emphasis on hospitality. In the ancient world, travel was arduous and dangerous, making the offer of shelter and sustenance a vital aspect of hospitality. The phrase "let your heart be merry" suggests a desire for the guest to find joy and relaxation, a common theme in biblical hospitality, as seen in the story of Abraham entertaining angels in Genesis 18. This invitation also foreshadows the events to come, as the narrative in Judges 19 takes a dark turn, highlighting the contrast between the initial hospitality and the subsequent violence. The call to merriment can be seen as a temporary reprieve from the harsh realities of life, a theme echoed in Ecclesiastes 8:15, where enjoying life is encouraged amidst life's uncertainties.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Levite
A man from the tribe of Levi who is traveling to retrieve his concubine. Levites were set apart for religious duties in Israel.

2. The Concubine
A secondary wife or woman living with a man without the full status of a wife. She had left the Levite and returned to her father's house.

3. The Father-in-law
The concubine's father, who shows hospitality to the Levite by inviting him to stay and enjoy food and drink.

4. Bethlehem
The town where the concubine's father lives, and where the Levite goes to bring her back.

5. Hospitality Event
The father-in-law's invitation to the Levite to stay and enjoy his hospitality, which is a central theme in this passage.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Hospitality
Hospitality is a recurring theme in the Bible, reflecting God's love and care for others. As Christians, we are called to open our homes and hearts to others, showing kindness and generosity.

Cultural Context of Hospitality
Understanding the cultural context of hospitality in biblical times can deepen our appreciation for these acts and encourage us to practice them in our own lives.

The Role of Reconciliation
The Levite's journey to reconcile with his concubine can remind us of the importance of seeking reconciliation in our relationships, mirroring God's desire for reconciliation with humanity.

The Dangers of Complacency
The father-in-law's repeated invitations to stay longer can serve as a caution against complacency and procrastination in our spiritual and personal lives.

Joy in Fellowship
The phrase "let your heart be merry" underscores the joy found in fellowship and community, encouraging us to find joy in our relationships with others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the cultural practice of hospitality in Judges 19:6 compare to modern-day practices, and how can we apply biblical hospitality in our lives today?

2. In what ways does the Levite's journey to reconcile with his concubine reflect God's desire for reconciliation with us, and how can we pursue reconciliation in our own relationships?

3. How can the repeated invitations from the father-in-law to stay longer serve as a warning against complacency in our spiritual walk?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure that our hearts remain "merry" in fellowship with others, as seen in this passage?

5. How does the theme of hospitality in Judges 19:6 connect with other biblical examples of hospitality, and what lessons can we learn from these connections?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 19
The hospitality shown by Lot to the angels in Sodom, highlighting the cultural importance of hospitality in ancient times.

Luke 10:38-42
The account of Mary and Martha, where hospitality is shown to Jesus, emphasizing the importance of welcoming others.

Hebrews 13:2
Encourages believers to show hospitality, as some have entertained angels without knowing it, reflecting the value of hospitality in the Christian life.