Old Testament
Judges 19:9
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the man is preparing to leave with his concubine and servant after visiting his father-in-law.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel
- Written
- Around 1050-1000 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites living under the judges
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."
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.
Verse Analysis
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.
Related Bible verses
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
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.

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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