Judges 19:5

*“Now on the fourth day they got up early in the morning, and he prepared to go; and the girl’s father said to his son-in-law, ‘Sustain yourself with a piece of bread, and afterward you may go.’”* (v.5)

In Judges 19:5, we see that the Levite and his concubine have stayed several days with her father in Bethlehem of Judah, demonstrating the custom of lavish Near Eastern hospitality. The father-in-law, wishing to prolong their visit, suggests they eat to gain strength before departing. This gesture underscores the value placed on sharing a meal and the fatherly care offered to guests in ancient Israel. During the time of the judges (roughly 1400–1050 BC), such hospitality was a significant cultural norm, especially given the dangers and difficulties of travel.

By encouraging the Levite to rest and refresh himself, the father-in-law exemplifies a familial bond that goes beyond a mere host-guest relationship. Although the Levite planned to leave, the father’s repeated requests reveal a desire for continued fellowship, perhaps reflecting both concern for the couple’s wellbeing and an understandable reluctance to part ways. This pause for nourishment also foreshadows the Levite’s delayed journey, which leads to the disturbing events that arise later in Judges 19, reminding us that cultural norms of generosity coexisted with the broader moral complexities of the era.

The father-in-law’s invitation to linger over bread beautifully prefigures the theme of invitation and provision seen in the New Testament, where Jesus invites weary souls to come, eat, and find rest in Him. Although here it is a simple meal, it anticipates the deeper spiritual truth that God desires people to pause, be renewed, and abide in fellowship.

This verse highlights the father’s hospitality and care in delaying the Levite’s departure, setting the stage for the events that follow.