Book of Judges - Chapter 19 - Verse 20

The verse "And the old man said, Peace be with thee; howsoever let all thy wants lie upon me; only lodge not in the street." from the Book of Judges chapter 19, verse 20, conveys a message of hospitality, kindness, and compassion. In this verse, an old man offers a traveler shelter for the night, showing a willingness to take responsibility for meeting the traveler's needs. The old man's words express a desire to ensure that the traveler has everything he needs for a comfortable stay, emphasizing the importance of showing care and concern for others. By urging the traveler not to lodge in the street, the old man demonstrates a sense of duty towards providing assistance and hospitality to those in need. This verse serves as a reminder of the significance of offering help and support to others, even to strangers, and highlights the virtue of extending a warm welcome to those seeking refuge or assistance.

In the theological interpretation of this verse, we see an example of sacrificial love and hospitality. The old man's offer to take on the needs of the stranger reflects the biblical principles of caring for others and showing kindness to those in need. The act of offering shelter and provisions to someone in a vulnerable position demonstrates the importance of compassion and generosity in the Christian faith. The word "Peace" is significant in this passage, as it reflects the desire for well-being and harmony between individuals. Additionally, the concept of not allowing the stranger to stay in the street emphasizes the biblical emphasis on caring for the marginalized and providing a safe haven for those who are in need. Overall, this verse highlights the importance of showing love and kindness to others, especially to strangers, as a reflection of our faith in God's love and provision.