What is the meaning of Judges 19:11? When they were near Jebus • Jebus is the old name for Jerusalem (Joshua 15:63; 2 Samuel 5:6-7). • The city is still in pagan hands because Israel left pockets of Canaanite control (Judges 1:21). • The travelers’ proximity to this foreign stronghold highlights Israel’s incomplete obedience (Judges 2:1-3). and the day was almost gone • Night travel was perilous, so the fading daylight sets up an urgent decision (Luke 24:29; Ephesians 5:15-16). • Scripture often links coming darkness with the need for prompt, wise action (John 9:4). the servant said to his master • The servant speaks respectfully yet candidly, echoing the pattern of Abraham’s servant who advised his master (Genesis 24:2-12). • Proverbs 12:15 commends a leader who listens; the Levite’s later refusal (Judges 19:12) will test that principle. "Please, let us stop at this Jebusite city • Practical safety lay inside city walls, as Lot once sought in Sodom (Genesis 19:1-3). • Because Jebus is foreign, the suggestion raises the tension between pragmatism and covenant purity (Deuteronomy 7:2-4). • Ironically, the Levite will reject this pagan town only to meet worse evil in Israelite Gibeah (Judges 19:22-25). and spend the night here" • The plea is for shelter and rest—“I will lie down and sleep in peace” (Psalm 4:8). • Biblical hospitality is a hallmark of righteousness (Romans 12:13; Hebrews 13:2); its absence at Gibeah will expose Israel’s decay. • Ignoring prudent counsel often invites trouble (Proverbs 27:12). summary Judges 19:11 freezes the travelers at a crossroads: dusk approaches, a servant offers sound advice, and the master must choose lodging. The verse spotlights Israel’s unfinished conquest, everyday hazards, and the importance of heeding wise counsel. The Levite’s forthcoming decision will reveal that the real danger lurks not in pagan cities but in a covenant community that has forsaken God, warning every reader to walk in obedience, hospitality, and discernment while daylight remains. |
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