Old Testament
Judges 19:6
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Judges 19:6, we see a moment of hospitality and camaraderie between a man and the father of a young woman.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel
- Written
- Around 1050-1000 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites living under the judges
So the two of them sat down and ate and drank together. Then the young woman's father said to him, "Please, stay another night and enjoy yourself."
And they sat down, and did eat and drink both of them together: for the damsel’s father had said unto the man, Be content, I pray thee, and tarry all night, and let thine heart be merry.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 19:6, we see a moment of hospitality and camaraderie between a man and the father of a young woman. They sit down together to eat and drink, which signifies a time of fellowship and enjoyment. The father encourages the man to stay longer, suggesting that he should relax and enjoy himself. This reflects the cultural importance of hospitality in ancient times, where sharing a meal was a way to build relationships and show kindness. The father's invitation to stay another night indicates his desire to ensure the guest feels welcomed and valued. This scene sets the stage for the events that follow, highlighting the significance of hospitality and the bonds formed through shared experiences. It also foreshadows the challenges that will arise later in the narrative, contrasting the warmth of this moment with the darker themes that will emerge.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Judges 19:6 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of hospitality in our lives. We can create a welcoming environment for others by inviting friends and family to share meals and experiences. Such moments strengthen our relationships and foster a sense of community.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Judges 19:6 mean?
Judges 19:6 describes a moment of hospitality where a man and the father of a young woman share a meal together. The father encourages the man to stay longer, highlighting the cultural significance of hospitality and the importance of building relationships through shared experiences.
What is the meaning of hospitality in Judges 19:6?
In Judges 19:6, hospitality is shown through the father's invitation for the man to stay and enjoy himself. This reflects the cultural customs of the time, where offering food and shelter was a way to honor guests and strengthen social bonds.
Why does the father invite the man to stay another night in Judges 19:6?
The father invites the man to stay another night to ensure he feels welcomed and valued. This gesture reflects the importance of hospitality in their culture, where sharing time and meals fosters relationships.
How does Judges 19:6 relate to cultural customs?
Judges 19:6 highlights cultural customs of hospitality, where sharing a meal signifies friendship and respect. The father's encouragement for the man to relax and enjoy himself illustrates the social norms of welcoming guests in ancient times.

The Book of Judges
Judges 1–2: Incomplete Conquest and the Cycle of Sin
After the death of Joshua, the tribes of Israel inquire of the Lord who should first go up to fight the remaining Canaanites. Judah is chosen and, with the help of the tribe of Simeon, achieves several victories, but fails to drive out the inhabitants of the coastal plain because they have iron chariots. The book then details the failures of the other tribes—Benjamin, Manasseh, Ephraim, Zebulun, Asher, and Naphtali—to completely dispossess the Canaanites from their allotted territories. Instead of driving them out, the Israelites put them to forced labor, allowing pagan influences to remain in the land. An angel of the Lord appears at Bochim and rebukes the people for breaking their covenant with God by making treaties with the inhabitants of the land. The people weep and offer sacrifices, but the pattern of disobedience is set.
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