In biblical times, the concept of travel was vastly different from what it is today. The roads and highways of ancient Israel and the surrounding regions were often fraught with danger, leading travelers to seek alternative routes for safety. This practice is reflected in various biblical narratives and historical contexts, where travelers would leave the main highways to avoid threats such as bandits, hostile territories, or political unrest.

One of the most illustrative examples of this practice is found in the period of the Judges. Judges 5:6-7 describes a time of great insecurity: "In the days of Shamgar son of Anath, in the days of Jael, the highways were deserted, and travelers took winding paths. The villagers ceased to be; they ceased in Israel, until I, Deborah, arose, a mother in Israel." This passage highlights the perilous conditions that led travelers to abandon the main roads, opting instead for less conspicuous and safer routes.

The insecurity of the highways during this period can be attributed to several factors. The decentralized nature of Israelite society during the time of the Judges meant that there was no strong central authority to maintain order and protect travelers. The frequent incursions by neighboring tribes and the internal strife among the Israelite tribes themselves contributed to the lawlessness that plagued the highways.

In addition to the physical dangers, travelers also faced spiritual and cultural threats. The highways often passed through regions inhabited by pagan nations, where the influence of idolatry and foreign customs posed a risk to the spiritual integrity of the Israelites. This concern is echoed in the broader biblical narrative, where the Israelites are repeatedly warned against adopting the practices of the surrounding nations (Deuteronomy 12:29-31).

The prophetic literature also reflects the theme of insecurity on the highways. In Isaiah 33:8 , the prophet laments, "The highways are deserted; travelers have left the paths. The treaty is broken, the witnesses are despised, and no one is respected." This passage underscores the breakdown of social order and the resulting impact on travel and commerce.

In the New Testament, the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37) provides a vivid depiction of the dangers faced by travelers. The man who fell among robbers on the road from Jerusalem to Jericho exemplifies the risks associated with travel in ancient times. The compassion shown by the Samaritan highlights the moral and ethical responsibilities of individuals to care for those in distress, regardless of the dangers involved.

Throughout the biblical narrative, the decision to leave the highways for security reflects a broader theme of reliance on God's protection and guidance. The Israelites' journey through the wilderness, led by the pillar of cloud and fire, serves as a powerful reminder of God's provision and the importance of seeking His direction in times of uncertainty (Exodus 13:21-22).

In summary, the practice of leaving the highways for security in biblical times was a response to the physical, spiritual, and cultural threats that travelers faced. This theme is woven throughout the biblical text, illustrating the challenges of travel in the ancient world and the enduring need for divine protection and guidance.Judges 5:6
In the days of Shamgar the son of Anath, in the days of Jael, the highways were unoccupied, and the travelers walked through byways.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Rise of the Assyrian Empire
... Travellers arriving in Egypt at that period must have ... not absorb all their resources,
and often left them times ... by deep ravines, owed their security solely to ...
/.../chapter iithe rise of the.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... their usual haunts, a few days or often a few ... ways, and demanded ransom for the
travellers they might ... people, like the Zidonians, dwelt in security, fearing no ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

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