King James Version

What Does Judges 19:1 Mean?

“And it came to pass in those days, when there was no king in Israel, that there was a certain Levite sojourning on the side of mount Ephraim, who took to him a concubine out of Bethlehemjudah . a concubine: Heb. a woman a concubine, or, a wife a concubine”

Context

And it came to pass in those days, when there was no king in Israel, that there was a certain Levite sojourning on the side of mount Ephraim, who took to him a concubine out of Bethlehemjudah . a concubine: Heb. a woman a concubine, or, a wife a concubine

And his concubine played the whore against him, and went away from him unto her father's house to Bethlehemjudah , and was there four whole months . four whole months: or, a year and four month: Heb. days, four months

And her husband arose, and went after her, to speak friendly unto her, and to bring her again, having his servant with him, and a couple of asses: and she brought him into her father's house: and when the father of the damsel saw him, he rejoiced to meet him. friendly: Heb. to her heart

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(1) **On the side of mount Ephraim.**—Literally, *on the two thighs *(*yarcethaim*)*. *(Comp. Psalm 128:3; Isaiah 37:24.) As to the residence of the Levite at Mount Ephraim, see Note on Judges 17:8. It is probably a fortuitous coincidence that both this Levite and Jonathan have relations with Mount Ephraim and with Bethlehem. **Took to him a concubine.**—Such connections were not legally forbidden; yet it is probable that in the case of all but princes or eminent men they were looked on with moral disapprobation. She is called “a wife or concubine”—*i.e., *a wife with inferior rights for herself and her children.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Judges. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Judges 19:1 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.