Old Testament
Judges 19:9
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When the man finally got up to leave with his concubine and his servant, his father-in-law said, "Look, the day is almost over. It's getting late. Stay one more night and enjoy yourself. Tomorrow you can get an early start and head home."
Compare translations
And when the man rose up to depart, he, and his concubine, and his servant, his father in law, the damsel’s father, said unto him, Behold, now the day draweth toward evening, I pray you tarry all night: behold, the day groweth to an end, lodge here, that thine heart may be merry; and to morrow get you early on your way, that thou mayest go home.
What Judges 19:9 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the man is preparing to leave with his concubine and servant after visiting his father-in-law. The father-in-law urges him to stay longer, pointing out that it is getting late and suggesting that they enjoy another night together. He emphasizes the importance of rest and hospitality, encouraging the man to take advantage of the evening to relax and have a good time before embarking on his journey the next day. This moment highlights the value of family bonds and the customs of hospitality in that culture, where it was common to offer shelter and comfort to guests. The father-in-law's concern for their well-being reflects a deep sense of care and the importance of community ties, even in the midst of travel and departure.
How to apply Judges 19:9 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of hospitality and taking time to connect with loved ones. In our busy lives, we should prioritize moments of rest and enjoyment with family and friends, fostering relationships and creating lasting memories before we move on to our next responsibilities.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Judges 19:9
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Judges 19:9
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Judges
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel
- Written
- Around 1050-1000 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites living under the judges
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Judges 19:9 mean?
Judges 19:9 describes a moment when a man, preparing to leave his father-in-law's home, is encouraged to stay another night. The father-in-law emphasizes the importance of hospitality and rest, highlighting cultural values of family and community.
What is the significance of hospitality in Judges 19:9?
In Judges 19:9, hospitality is portrayed as a vital cultural practice, where the father-in-law urges his guest to stay longer for comfort and enjoyment. This reflects the importance of caring for others and maintaining strong family bonds.
How does Judges 19:9 reflect family values?
Judges 19:9 reflects family values by showing the father-in-law's concern for his guest's well-being. His invitation to stay longer emphasizes the importance of nurturing relationships and enjoying time together as a family.
What lessons can we learn from Judges 19:9?
From Judges 19:9, we learn the importance of hospitality and taking time to connect with loved ones. It encourages us to prioritize rest and enjoyment with family and friends amidst our busy lives.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.