Judges 19:5

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."

Study Bible

On the fourth day
The mention of the "fourth day" indicates a period of hospitality that was common in ancient Near Eastern culture. Hospitality was a significant cultural value, and extended stays were not unusual. This timeframe also reflects the patience and persistence of the Levite, who had come to reconcile with his concubine.

they got up early in the morning
Rising early was typical for travelers in ancient times to avoid the heat of the day. This practice is seen throughout Scripture, such as in Genesis 19:27 when Abraham rose early to see the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. It signifies diligence and a readiness to undertake a journey.

and prepared to depart
The preparation to leave suggests a resolution to the initial conflict that brought the Levite to Bethlehem. It also indicates a transition in the narrative, moving from reconciliation to the impending journey, which will lead to significant events in Gibeah.

but the girl’s father said to his son-in-law
The father-in-law's role here is crucial, as he represents the familial and social customs of the time. His interaction with the Levite shows a desire to maintain peace and goodwill, reflecting the importance of family ties and reconciliation.

“Refresh your heart with a morsel of bread
This phrase is an invitation to extend hospitality further. "Refresh your heart" is a Hebrew idiom meaning to be strengthened or encouraged. Bread, a staple food, symbolizes sustenance and fellowship. This echoes the hospitality shown by Abraham in Genesis 18:5 when he offered bread to the divine visitors.

and then you can go.”
The father-in-law's suggestion to delay departure emphasizes the cultural importance of hospitality and rest before a journey. It also foreshadows the events that will unfold due to the delay, highlighting the narrative tension and the unfolding of God's providential plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Levite
A central figure in this account, the Levite is traveling with his concubine. His actions and decisions are pivotal to the unfolding events.

2. The Concubine
The Levite's concubine, whose return to her father's house sets the stage for the events in Judges 19.

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

4. Bethlehem
The location where the concubine's father resides and where the Levite visits to retrieve his concubine.

5. Departure
The event of preparing to leave, which is delayed by the father-in-law's hospitality.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Hospitality
Hospitality is a recurring theme in Scripture, reflecting God's love and care. As believers, we are called to extend hospitality to others, seeing it as an opportunity to serve and bless.

Delays and Divine Timing
The father-in-law's insistence on delaying the Levite's departure can remind us that God's timing is often different from our own. We should remain open to divine interruptions that may lead to greater purposes.

Family Relationships and Reconciliation
The Levite's journey to retrieve his concubine highlights the importance of reconciliation and maintaining family relationships. As Christians, we are called to pursue peace and reconciliation in our relationships.

Cultural Context and Understanding
Understanding the cultural context of biblical events can enrich our comprehension of Scripture. The hospitality shown in this passage reflects ancient Near Eastern customs, which can inform our reading of the text.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the hospitality shown by the father-in-law in Judges 19:5 compare to other examples of hospitality in the Bible, and what can we learn from these examples?

2. In what ways can we practice hospitality in our own lives, and how does this reflect our faith in Christ?

3. How might the concept of divine timing be relevant in your life today, and how can you remain open to God's timing in your plans?

4. What steps can you take to pursue reconciliation in a strained relationship, and how does this align with biblical teachings on forgiveness and peace?

5. How does understanding the cultural context of biblical events enhance your study of Scripture, and how can you apply this understanding to other passages in the Bible?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

Luke 24
The disciples on the road to Emmaus are urged to stay and eat, similar to the Levite being urged to stay and refresh himself, showing the importance of fellowship and hospitality.

Hebrews 13:2
This verse encourages believers to show hospitality, as some have entertained angels without knowing it, reflecting the cultural and spiritual significance of hospitality.