It’s noted that during this period, there was no king in Israel. I believe the repeated emphasis on the absence of a ruler or leader from chapter 17 onward highlights the importance of godly leadership in guiding and governing the people rightly.
This chapter tells the story of a Levite who took a concubine that was unfaithful to him. Despite her actions, he went after her to her father’s house to reconcile. He ended up staying there for five days after being persuaded repeatedly by his father-in-law. On the fifth day, in the evening, he decided to head back home. Though it was late, his servant pleaded that they should stay overnight in a nearby city, but he refused, saying that the Jebusites—the people of that city—were not children of God. Instead, they continued on to Gibeah.
However, upon arriving in Gibeah, no one offered them hospitality, so they stayed in the town square. Later, an old man passing by noticed them, questioned where they were from, and kindly took them into his home.
The lesson I take from this part is that just because people identify as “children of God” doesn’t mean they will always show kindness or compassion. Ultimately, it is God who moves people to help you. He alone sends true helpers and touches hearts to extend grace when you need it most.
Judges 19:22–30 – Gibeah’s Crime
While the Levite, his concubine, and his servant were being hosted, some wicked men of Gibeah surrounded the old man’s house. They demanded that the Levite be brought out to them. The old man pleaded with them instead and, in a desperate act, sent out the concubine. These men abused her throughout the night until dawn. She managed to reach the doorway of the house before collapsing.
When the Levite got up in the morning and asked her to get up so they could continue their journey, he discovered she was lifeless. He took her body home, and in a shocking act, he dismembered her into twelve pieces and sent them throughout the twelve tribes of Israel.
I find this passage deeply disturbing and thought-provoking. Was it grief that drove him to such a drastic response? It’s also ironic that he avoided the Jebusites because he believed they weren’t God’s people, yet this horrific act took place among the Israelites themselves.
It’s a sobering reminder that appearances can be deceiving—never judge by outward labels or assumptions. And above all, don’t make decisions based on human reasoning or emotion. Let God lead you in all things, for His guidance alone keeps us from paths that end in tragedy.
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