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Judges 19:23

And the man, the master of the house, went out unto them, and said unto them, Nay, my brethren, nay, I pray you, do not so wickedly; seeing that this man is come into mine house, do not this folly.

Judges 19:23 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the book of Genesis tells of a story in which a man, the master of the house, goes out to confront a group of men who are planning to commit a wicked act. The man urges them to reconsider their actions, pleading with them not to do something so sinful. He emphasizes the importance of protecting the guest who has come into his house, and urges them not to engage in such folly. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of hospitality, kindness, and standing up against evil. It teaches us to protect those who seek shelter in our home, and to speak out against wrongdoing. It also highlights the role of the master of the house as a leader and protector of those under his care. Overall, this verse serves as a moral lesson about the importance of doing what is right and standing up for what is good, even in the face of adversity.

Theological Overview

In this verse, we see the man, the master of the house, going out to confront a group of men who were behaving wickedly. He addresses them as his brethren, indicating a familial or community connection. The man implores them not to commit such wicked acts, emphasizing the importance of hospitality and protection of guests. The word "folly" used in this verse can be interpreted as a reference to a heinous or shameful act. This verse highlights the significance of moral values and the duty to uphold righteousness even in the face of societal pressures. It serves as a reminder to act with integrity and stand firm against wrongdoing, especially when it involves the violation of moral principles. The theological interpretation of this verse reveals the overarching themes of hospitality, righteousness, and the importance of standing against evil, all of which are foundational principles taught throughout the Bible.

Judges 19:23 in other translations

American Standard Version

And the man, the master of the house, went out unto them, and said unto them, Nay, my brethren, I pray you, do not so wickedly; seeing that this man is come into my house, do not this folly.

World English Bible

The man, the master of the house, went out to them, and said to them, “No, my brothers, please don’t act so wickedly; since this man has come into my house, don’t do this folly.

Douay-Rheims

And the old man went out to them, and said: Do not so, my brethren, do not so wickedly: because this man is come into my lodging, and cease I pray you from this folly.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And this man the master of ye house went out vnto the, and said vnto them, Nay my brethre, do not so wickedly, I pray you: seeing that this man is come into mine house, do not this villenie.