Book of Judges - Chapter 19 - Verse 12
Meaning
When looking at the verse "And his master said unto him, We will not turn aside hither into the city of a stranger, that is not of the children of Israel; we will pass over to Gibeah," it is important to understand the context in which it is set. This verse is found in the Book of Judges in the Old Testament and tells the story of a Levite and his concubine traveling through the land. The master's decision to avoid the city of a stranger that is not of the children of Israel and instead pass over to Gibeah reflects the cultural and religious beliefs of the Israelites at that time. It demonstrates the importance of sticking to one's own people and customs, as well as avoiding potential dangers that may come from interacting with foreigners. This verse serves as a reminder of the significance of staying true to one's heritage and faith, even when faced with unfamiliar territory or circumstances.
Theological Overview
Within the theological interpretation of the verse, "And his master said unto him, We will not turn aside hither into the city of a stranger, that is not of the children of Israel; we will pass over to Gibeah," there is a focus on the concept of loyalty to one's own people. The master in this passage is adamant about not deviating from the path to a city of strangers, emphasizing the importance of sticking to familiar territory. This can be seen as a symbolic representation of the Old Testament's emphasis on the Israelites remaining separate from other nations and avoiding foreign influences. The master's decision to pass over to Gibeah, a city of Israelites, reflects a commitment to maintaining the cultural and religious identity of the Israelite people. Through word studies, the significance of the master's choice becomes even more apparent, highlighting the importance of staying true to one's heritage and not straying into unknown territories that may lead to spiritual compromise.