Book of Judges - Chapter 19 - Verse 8

When examining the verse "And he arose early in the morning on the fifth day to depart: and the damsel's father said, Comfort thine heart, I pray thee. And they tarried until afternoon, and they did eat both of them," we gain insight into the Biblical narrative of hospitality and kindness. The act of rising early in the morning to depart shows diligence and determination in carrying out one's purpose. The damsel's father's words, "Comfort thine heart, I pray thee," serve as a gesture of comfort and support, showcasing the importance of empathy and understanding towards others. The mention of tarrying until afternoon and sharing a meal signifies the value placed on fellowship and nourishment in both the physical and emotional sense. This verse exemplifies the themes of hospitality, caring for one another, and the significance of taking the time to provide comfort and sustenance, highlighting the core values of compassion and kindness reflected in the Bible.

In this verse, there is a significant theological interpretation that can be drawn from the actions of the damsel's father. By telling the man to "comfort thine heart," the father is displaying compassion and understanding towards his guest, showing hospitality and care. This act reflects the biblical value of showing kindness and hospitality to strangers, as mentioned in various scriptures throughout the Bible. The act of eating together further emphasizes the theme of communion and fellowship, as sharing a meal is often seen as a symbol of bonding and unity in many cultures. The word "tarried" in this context could also be seen as a symbol of patience and perseverance, as they waited until afternoon before departing. Overall, this verse highlights themes of hospitality, compassion, unity, and patience, all of which are important values emphasized in the Bible.