Judges 19:9

*“When the man arose to go along with his concubine and a servant, his father-in-law, the girl’s father, said to him, ‘Behold now, the day has drawn to a close; please spend the night. Lo, the day is coming to an end; spend the night here that your heart may be merry. Then tomorrow you may arise early for your journey so that you may go home.’” (v.9)*

In this verse, the father-in-law—who lives in Bethlehem in Judah—pleads with his son-in-law to remain another night, demonstrating an extravagant form of hospitality common in ancient Israelite culture. Bethlehem in Judah is located about five miles south of Jerusalem and is historically significant as the birthplace of King David around 1040 BC to 970 BC, and later as the birthplace of Jesus the Messiah (Luke 2:4-7, NASB-95). During the period of the Judges (approximately 1380 to 1050 BC), there was no central monarchy in Israel, and individual tribes governed themselves, making extended stays with relatives a common demonstration of care.

*“Please spend the night,” (v.9)* the father-in-law insists, highlighting his concern that it is too late in the day to begin a journey. While this gesture can appear courteous and even celebratory, reflecting the heartiness of a communal meal meant to “make the heart merry,” it also foreshadows potential trouble. The father-in-law’s repeated efforts, as described earlier in the chapter, emphasize both his affection for his daughter’s husband and a cultural norm of generous hospitality before sending loved ones away. This warmth toward the traveler might also remind readers of how hospitality is uplifted throughout Scripture, pointing ultimately to the provision and welcome God offers through Christ to those who seek refuge in Him (Matthew 11:28, NASB-95).

In telling the man, *“Then tomorrow you may arise early for your journey so that you may go home,” (v.9)* the father-in-law delays the Levite’s departure for yet another day. From a broader perspective, this verse encapsulates the tension of discerning proper timing versus following one’s own schedule, a theme which echoes in other biblical narratives. The father-in-law’s house would have been a place of rest in a tumultuous era, making his invitation attractive and practical. Nonetheless, it sets the stage for the subsequent events in the account, where the man's delayed departure and travel route will have serious consequences later in Judges 19.

They delay the journey further, showing how cultural and familial obligations can collide with one’s personal sense of duty in ancient Israel.