Bible Strands
Judges 19:20
“Peace to you,” said the old man. “Let me supply everything you need. Only do not spend the night in the square.”
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — The old man in Gibeah addresses the traveling Levite directly in the city square, responding to the servant’s earlier offer of provisions.
The words — The Hebrew שָׁלוֹם (shalom) functions as a standard greeting of peace, while רַק (rak) operates as a restrictive conjunction meaning “only” or “certainly.”
The thread — The host’s invitation parallels Genesis 19:2 and Genesis 24:31, where strangers are welcomed inside for shelter, and echoes the peace declaration in Judges 6:23.
Why it lands — The text states the host’s willingness to provide before issuing a sharp prohibition against staying in the open square, framing hospitality alongside immediate danger.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Hebrew words
King James Version
And the old man said, Peace be with thee; howsoever let all thy wants lie upon me; only lodge not in the street.
Cross-references
- Judges 6:23 But the LORD said to him, “Peace be with you. Do not be afraid, for you will not die.”
- Genesis 19:2 and said, “My lords, please turn aside into the house of your servant; wash your feet and spend the night. Then you can rise early and go on your way.” “No,” they answered, “we will spend the night in the square.”
- Genesis 24:31 “Come, you who are blessed by the LORD,” said Laban. “Why are you standing out here? I have prepared the house and a place for the camels.”
- Genesis 43:23 “It is fine,” said the steward. “Do not be afraid. Your God, the God of your father, gave you the treasure that was in your sacks. I received your silver.” Then he brought Simeon out to them.
- 1 Samuel 25:6 and say to him, ‘Long life to you, and peace to you and to your house and to all that belongs to you.
- 1 Chronicles 12:18 Then the Spirit came upon Amasai, the chief of the Thirty, and he said: “We are yours, O David! We are with you, O son of Jesse! Peace, peace to you, and peace to your helpers, for your God helps you.” So David received them and made them leaders of his troops.
- Luke 10:5 Whatever house you enter, begin by saying, ‘Peace to this house.’
- John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid.
- Romans 12:13 Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality.
- 1 Corinthians 1:3 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.