Judges 19:5

KJV

And it came to pass on the fourth day, when they arose early in the morning, that he rose up to depart: and the damsel's father said unto his son in law, Comfort thine heart with a morsel of bread, and afterward go your way.

KJV (with Strong's)

And it came to pass on the fourth {H7243} day {H3117}, when they arose early {H7925} in the morning {H1242}, that he rose up {H6965} to depart {H3212}: and the damsel's {H5291} father {H1} said {H559} unto his son in law {H2860}, Comfort {H5582} thine heart {H3820} with a morsel {H6595} of bread {H3899}, and afterward {H310} go your way {H3212}.

Complete Jewish Bible

On the fourth day they got up early in the morning, and he prepared to leave. But the girl's father said to his son-in-law, "You'll feel better if you have a bite of food before you leave."

Berean Standard Bible

On the fourth day, they got up early in the morning and prepared to depart, but the girl’s father said to his son-in-law, “Refresh your heart with a morsel of bread, and then you can go.”

American Standard Version

And it came to pass on the fourth day, that they arose early in the morning, and he rose up to depart: and the damsel’s father said unto his son-in-law, Strengthen thy heart with a morsel of bread, and afterward ye shall go your way.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Judges 19:5 marks a critical juncture in one of the Bible's most harrowing narratives, illustrating the persistent, almost manipulative, hospitality extended by the concubine's father to his son-in-law, the Levite. On the morning of the fourth day, as the Levite attempts to finally depart, the father-in-law reiterates his plea to "comfort thine heart with a morsel of bread," thereby orchestrating yet another delay in their journey. This seemingly benign act of generosity, repeated over several days, is imbued with profound dramatic irony, as it directly contributes to their late departure, which tragically places the Levite and his concubine in the path of the horrific violence and depravity that will unfold in Gibeah, setting the stage for one of the most disturbing episodes in Israel's history.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Judges 19:5 is intricately woven into a deeply unsettling narrative that commences with a Levite from the hill country of Ephraim journeying to Bethlehem of Judah to retrieve his concubine, who had previously left him. The preceding verses [Judges 19:1-4](/judges/19-1-4 "Judges 19:1-4 - The Levite Reclaims His Concubine") establish the initial reconciliation and the father-in-law's overwhelming hospitality, which has already successfully delayed their departure for three consecutive days. This verse specifically highlights the morning of the fourth day, emphasizing the Levite's renewed and determined effort to leave, an attempt that is once more thwarted by his father-in-law's persuasive and insistent invitation. This prolonged and repeated delay is far more than a mere narrative detail; it functions as a crucial plot device, ensuring that the Levite and his concubine will be traveling at an ill-fated time, leading them directly to the Benjamite town of Gibeah under the perilous cover of darkness, where the chapter's unspeakable horrors are destined to unfold. The narrative's deliberate and careful pacing in these verses masterfully builds escalating tension and ominously foreshadows the impending tragedy.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, hospitality was not merely a courtesy but a sacred and deeply ingrained cultural obligation, often extending for multiple days, particularly for weary travelers. It was considered a matter of profound honor and a vital means of providing protection and sustenance to guests. However, the father-in-law's actions in [Judges 19](/judges/19 "Judges 19 - The Levite and His Concubine") transcend customary courtesy, bordering on an almost coercive or manipulative insistence. His relentless prolongation of the stay, despite the son-in-law's evident desire to depart, suggests an overbearing affection for his daughter, a possessive attachment, or perhaps a strong desire to maintain the family connection. This specific period in Israel's history, as repeatedly underscored throughout the book of Judges, was characterized by a profound absence of central governmental or spiritual authority and a pervasive moral decay, famously encapsulated by the recurring refrain, "[there was no king in Israel](/judges/19-1 "Judges 19:1 - No King in Israel")" and "[every man did that which was right in his own eyes](/judges/21-25 "Judges 21:25 - Moral Anarchy in Israel")". This societal breakdown meant that even deeply revered customs like hospitality could be distorted, misapplied, or inadvertently lead to unforeseen and tragic consequences when wisdom, discernment, and divine guidance were conspicuously absent.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to the development of several pivotal themes within [Judges 19](/judges/19 "Judges 19 - The Levite and His Concubine") and the broader book of Judges. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the theme of **excessive hospitality** and its potential for unintended and devastating negative consequences. While hospitality is generally a commendable virtue, its overextension in this narrative becomes a form of obstruction, preventing the Levite from adhering to his necessary and timely course of action. Secondly, the theme of **delay and its catastrophic consequences** is paramount; the father-in-law's repeated and insistent pleas for the Levite to stay directly lead to their dangerously late departure, which inexorably places the Levite and his concubine in extreme peril. This narrative element starkly underscores how seemingly minor decisions or prolonged delays can precipitate catastrophic outcomes. Thirdly, the verse subtly yet powerfully reinforces the overarching theme of **moral decay in Israel**. The father-in-law's actions, though perhaps initially well-intentioned, are part of a larger tapestry depicting a society where personal desires and cultural customs are not tempered by divine wisdom or a clear moral compass. This ultimately contributes to the horrific events that graphically illustrate the profound depths of depravity in a land devoid of a righteous king or a guiding moral authority, a pervasive condition lamented throughout [the book of Judges](/judges/1 "The Book of Judges - A Cycle of Sin and Deliverance"). The verse also functions as a potent point of **foreshadowing**, meticulously building suspense for the reader who is aware of the grim events awaiting the ill-fated travelers.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Comfort (Hebrew, _çâʻad'_):** From H5582, meaning "to support (mostly figurative); comfort, establish, hold up, refresh self, strengthen, be upholden." In this context, the father-in-law's use of "comfort" (often translated as "strengthen" or "refresh") is an appeal to the physical and emotional well-being of his son-in-law. It implies that a meal will invigorate him for the journey, but it simultaneously serves as a persuasive tactic to delay his departure, cloaking the father's true desire to prolong their stay under the guise of care.
* **Morsel (Hebrew, _path'_):** From H6595, meaning "a bit; meat, morsel, piece." The term "morsel of bread" (Hebrew, *pat lechem*) signifies a small, simple, and perhaps quick bite. The father-in-law's choice of "morsel" rather than a full meal could be a rhetorical device to make his request seem minimal and easily granted, thereby reducing the Levite's resistance to yet another delay. It suggests a non-burdensome act of hospitality, yet it effectively achieves the father's objective of holding them back.
* **Day (Hebrew, _yôwm'_):** From H3117, meaning "a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an associated term)." The explicit mention of the "fourth day" is crucial. It underscores the extraordinary length of the delay and the father-in-law's relentless persistence. This specific temporal marker highlights the Levite's growing impatience and the mounting narrative tension, as the repeated deferrals of departure inevitably lead to their journey commencing at a dangerously late hour.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And it came to pass on the fourth day, when they arose early in the morning, that he rose up to depart":** This opening clause precisely sets the scene and unequivocally states the Levite's firm intention. After enduring three days of persistent delays, the Levite is clearly resolved to leave at the earliest possible moment ("early in the morning"), signaling his increasing impatience and a recognition of the urgent need to continue his journey. This declaration immediately establishes a direct narrative conflict with the father-in-law's desires.
* **"and the damsel's father said unto his son in law":** This phrase reintroduces the father-in-law as the active and dominant agent in this interaction, emphasizing his continued intervention and control over the situation. His voice is the consistent source of delay, underscoring his pivotal role in orchestrating the prolonged stay and the subsequent events.
* **"Comfort thine heart with a morsel of bread":** This is the father-in-law's familiar and highly persuasive plea, repeated from earlier in the narrative. It is framed as an appeal to basic human need for sustenance and comfort, presented as an act of genuine kindness. However, within the established context of repeated delays, this seemingly benign request functions as a subtle form of manipulation, utilizing the guise of hospitality to achieve his underlying desire to prolong their stay. The reference to a "morsel" makes the request appear small and easily granted, further entreating the Levite.
* **"and afterward go your way":** This concluding phrase is a deceptive and ultimately unfulfilled promise. It offers the Levite the hope of imminent departure, yet it is a promise that has been broken repeatedly over the preceding days. For the discerning reader, this phrase dramatically heightens the irony and suspense, as we are acutely aware that "afterward" will lead not to a safe and peaceful journey, but directly to the unfolding horror and depravity in Gibeah.

#### Literary Devices
Judges 19:5 is rich with several literary devices that significantly enhance its dramatic impact and thematic depth. **Foreshadowing** is prominently featured, as the repeated delays, particularly the explicit mention of the "fourth day," meticulously build an ominous tension, subtly hinting at the dire and tragic consequences that will inevitably arise from their late departure. The reader is given a palpable sense that this prolonged stay will lead to trouble, a premonition that is tragically fulfilled. **Irony** is also powerfully at play: what begins as an act of sacred hospitality, culturally intended for comfort, protection, and blessing, ironically transforms into the very catalyst for the concubine's brutalization and death. The father-in-law's seemingly well-intentioned (or perhaps selfishly motivated) kindness directly contributes to the unfolding catastrophe. The **Repetition** of the father-in-law's persistent plea to "comfort thine heart" (reiterated in [Judges 19:8](/judges/19-8 "Judges 19:8 - The Father-in-Law's Persistent Plea")) underscores his relentless insistence and the Levite's passive, yielding nature, creating a profound sense of inevitability about the delay. Finally, the narrative masterfully employs **Suspense**, as the reader is acutely aware of the Levite's increasing desire to leave and the father-in-law's unwavering insistence on staying, generating a palpable tension concerning when they will finally depart and the dreadful fate that awaits them on their journey.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Judges 19:5, though seemingly a simple domestic interaction, serves as a profound theological statement on human responsibility, the insidious consequences of unchecked desires, and the inherent dangers of a society adrift from divine guidance. The father-in-law's excessive hospitality, while rooted in a culturally valued custom, starkly highlights the precarious fine line between virtue and vice when genuine discernment is lacking. His actions, coupled with the Levite's passive acquiescence, powerfully illustrate how seemingly minor decisions or prolonged indecision can inadvertently set in motion a devastating chain of events with catastrophic outcomes. This narrative functions as a stark and urgent warning about the critical importance of wisdom in discerning when to graciously accept hospitality and when to firmly prioritize one's necessary course of action, especially when facing potential dangers or responsibilities. It underscores the broader, pervasive theme of the book of Judges: that when individuals and an entire nation "[do what is right in their own eyes](/judges/21-25 "Judges 21:25 - Moral Chaos in Israel")" rather than diligently seeking and adhering to God's revealed will, even actions born of good intentions can tragically contribute to societal breakdown, moral depravity, and profound suffering.

* [Proverbs 13:16](/proverbs/13-16 "Proverbs 13:16 - The Prudent Act with Knowledge")
* [Proverbs 27:10](/proverbs/27-10 "Proverbs 27:10 - The Value of a Neighbor")
* [Judges 21:25](/judges/21-25 "Judges 21:25 - Everyone Did What Was Right in Their Own Eyes")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The tragic and disturbing narrative of Judges 19, with verse 5 serving as a crucial turning point, offers profound and enduring lessons for contemporary life. It compels us to deeply consider the far-reaching and often unforeseen consequences of our choices, even those that appear minor, well-intentioned, or culturally acceptable. The father-in-law's excessive hospitality, while rooted in a cherished cultural value, ultimately contributes directly to a devastating disaster. This prompts us to critically examine our own motivations and the potential impact of our actions, even when they seem benevolent. Are there instances in our lives where our "kindness" or desire to please inadvertently hinders others, delays necessary progress, or leads to unforeseen negative outcomes? The Levite's repeated yielding to delay also serves as a potent cautionary tale about the paramount importance of discernment, resolve, and personal responsibility. There are indeed moments when we must courageously assert our boundaries, firmly adhere to our convictions, and diligently proceed with our responsibilities, even in the face of persuasive appeals, social pressure, or the allure of comfort. This harrowing story, set in a time when "every man did that which was right in his own eyes," powerfully reminds us of the inherent dangers of moral relativism and the critical, enduring need for a guiding moral compass rooted firmly in objective divine truth, rather than relying solely on subjective personal judgment, fleeting cultural norms, or the path of least resistance. It calls us to cultivate profound wisdom, spiritual discernment, and unwavering courage to make difficult choices that align with God's perfect will, even when it means resisting comfortable delays, popular opinion, or the expectations of others.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How might well-intentioned actions, like the father-in-law's persistent hospitality, inadvertently lead to negative or even tragic consequences in our lives or the lives of others?**
* **In what areas of your life might you be passively yielding to delays, distractions, or comfortable routines that are preventing you from pursuing what is truly necessary, wise, or aligned with God's calling?**
* **How can we cultivate greater spiritual discernment to know when to graciously accept hospitality or assistance, and when to firmly adhere to our planned course of action, especially when faced with potential risks or responsibilities?**
* **What does the moral chaos and societal breakdown depicted in Judges 19, stemming from individuals doing "what was right in their own eyes," teach us about the enduring importance of objective moral standards and divine guidance for individuals and society today?**

### FAQ

**Why did the father-in-law keep delaying them?**

Answer: The text does not explicitly state his precise motivations, allowing for interpretive nuance, but several factors likely contributed to his persistent delays. Culturally, hospitality was a sacred and deeply ingrained duty, and prolonging a guest's stay was often seen as a significant sign of honor, affection, and protection. He may have genuinely enjoyed their company, or perhaps felt a deep, protective affection for his daughter and wished to keep her close for as long as possible after her return. Some interpretations suggest a more manipulative or controlling element, perhaps a desire to maintain influence or to ensure his daughter's well-being by keeping her under his immediate protection. Regardless of his exact intent, his actions, though possibly rooted in a form of care or cultural custom, ultimately prevented the Levite from leaving at a safer time, directly contributing to the tragic events that unfolded later in [Judges 19](/judges/19 "Judges 19 - The Levite and His Concubine").

**What is the significance of the "fourth day" in this verse?**

Answer: The explicit mention of the "fourth day" is highly significant because it powerfully emphasizes the prolonged, repeated, and almost relentless nature of the delay. The narrative meticulously details that the father-in-law successfully delayed them on the second day [Judges 19:4](/judges/19-4 "Judges 19:4 - The Second Day's Delay"), the third day [Judges 19:7](/judges/19-7 "Judges 19:7 - The Third Day's Delay"), and now again on this pivotal fourth day. This persistent repetition builds immense narrative tension and vividly highlights the father-in-law's unyielding insistence. It underscores the Levite's increasing frustration and the escalating urgency to depart. Crucially, this extended and cumulative delay means that they ultimately leave Bethlehem late in the day, causing them to be on the road at dusk and forcing them to seek lodging in the notoriously dangerous town of Gibeah, thereby directly setting the stage for the horrific and morally depraved events that define the climax of the chapter. The "fourth day" thus marks the critical point of no return for their ill-fated journey.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The profoundly dark and disturbing narrative of [Judges 19](/judges/19 "Judges 19 - The Levite and His Concubine"), epitomized by the pervasive moral decay and the catastrophic consequences of human self-will, powerfully underscores humanity's desperate and inherent need for a true King and a perfect Shepherd. The Levite, a figure representing Israel's spiritual leadership, tragically fails to protect his concubine and make wise, discerning decisions, thereby reflecting the spiritual bankruptcy and moral chaos of a people where "[there was no king in Israel](/judges/19-1 "Judges 19:1 - No King in Israel") and every man did what was right in his own eyes." This pervasive chaos and depravity find their ultimate and redemptive answer in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Unlike the Levite who passively yields to human persuasion and leads his household into unimaginable peril, Jesus is the Good Shepherd who willingly lays down His life for His sheep, demonstrating perfect leadership, unwavering protection, and unparalleled self-sacrificial love (cf. [John 10:11](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - The Good Shepherd")). The distorted and ultimately destructive hospitality depicted in Judges, which tragically leads to violence and death, stands in stark and glorious contrast to Christ's perfect and life-giving hospitality, where He graciously invites all who are weary and burdened to find true rest, comfort, and eternal sustenance in Him (cf. [Matthew 11:28](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28 - Come to Me, All Who Are Weary")). The "morsel of bread" offered in [Judges 19:5](/judges/19-5 "Judges 19:5 - The Fourth Day's Delay"), which indirectly leads to death, profoundly foreshadows the true Bread of Life, Jesus Himself, whose body broken for us offers not temporary comfort but eternal life and spiritual nourishment (cf. [John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")). The entire book of Judges, with its cyclical descent into sin and anarchy, cries out for a deliverer, a righteous King who would bring divine order out of human chaos. That King is Jesus, who perfectly fulfills the law, decisively conquers sin and death, and establishes an everlasting kingdom where righteousness and justice reign supreme, ensuring that all who follow Him will never walk in spiritual darkness but will have the glorious light of life (cf. [John 8:12](/john/8-12 "John 8:12 - Jesus, the Light of the World")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Judges 19:8

And he arose early in the morning on the fifth day to depart: and the damsel's father said, Comfort thine heart, I pray thee. And they tarried until afternoon, and they did eat both of them.

Genesis 18:5

And I will fetch a morsel of bread, and comfort ye your hearts; after that ye shall pass on: for therefore are ye come to your servant. And they said, So do, as thou hast said.

1 Samuel 30:12

And they gave him a piece of a cake of figs, and two clusters of raisins: and when he had eaten, his spirit came again to him: for he had eaten no bread, nor drunk [any] water, three days and three nights.

1 Kings 13:7

And the king said unto the man of God, Come home with me, and refresh thyself, and I will give thee a reward.

Psalms 104:15

And wine [that] maketh glad the heart of man, [and] oil to make [his] face to shine, and bread [which] strengtheneth man's heart.

Acts 9:19

And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus.

1 Samuel 14:27

But Jonathan heard not when his father charged the people with the oath: wherefore he put forth the end of the rod that [was] in his hand, and dipped it in an honeycomb, and put his hand to his mouth; and his eyes were enlightened.