Judges 19:4

Judges 19:4 describes an initial scene of extended hospitality at the beginning of a tragic narrative. The verse states, "And his father in law, the damsel's father, retained him; and he abode with him three days: so they did eat and drink, and lodged there." This verse sets the stage for the dramatic events that unfold in the rest of Judges chapter 19, highlighting an unexpected delay in the Levite's journey.

Context

This verse follows the Levite's journey to Bethlehem-Judah to retrieve his concubine, who had previously left him and returned to her father's house. The father-in-law, eager to reconcile and perhaps ensure his daughter's well-being, receives the Levite with great warmth and hospitality. This initial welcome is lavish and insistent, leading to an extended stay of three days. The pleasant atmosphere described here stands in stark contrast to the horrific events and moral decay that the Levite and his concubine would encounter later in their journey.

Key Themes

• Hospitality: The verse vividly portrays the strong custom of hospitality in ancient Israel. The father-in-law's insistence on the Levite staying, providing food, drink, and lodging for multiple days, showcases a deep cultural value of welcoming guests and strengthening family ties.
• Delay and Its Consequences: The extended stay, while a sign of good intentions, ultimately contributes to the Levite's late departure, causing him to travel at dusk and seek lodging in a dangerous, unwelcoming city. This delay is a critical plot point, inadvertently leading to the ensuing tragedy.
• Family Bonds: Despite the concubine's previous unfaithfulness to the Levite, her father's actions demonstrate a desire to maintain family connections and ensure a peaceful resolution, highlighting the importance of family in this period.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase translated as "retained him" (וַיֶּחֱזַק בּוֹ, vayyeḥězaq bo) literally means "he strengthened himself upon him" or "he took hold of him." This conveys more than a polite invitation; it implies a firm, insistent persuasion or even a gentle compulsion. The father-in-law was not merely suggesting but actively urging and ensuring the Levite's extended stay, reflecting the depth of his desire for fellowship and reconciliation.

Practical Application

The scene in Judges 19:4, though seemingly benign, serves as a poignant setup for the dark narrative of the chapter. It reminds us that:

• Good intentions and valued customs, like hospitality, can sometimes have unforeseen negative consequences if not balanced with wisdom and discernment, especially concerning timing and safety.
• The narrative subtly foreshadows the spiritual and moral decline of Israel during the period of the Judges, where the absence of a central authority led to widespread chaos and corruption, epitomized by the recurring phrase, "every man did that which was right in his own eyes."
• It highlights the importance of making timely decisions and being aware of one's surroundings, rather than delaying unnecessarily, which can expose one to greater risks.