Judges 19:3
And her husband arose, and went after her, to speak friendly unto her, and to bring her again, having his servant with him, and a couple of asses: and she brought him into her father's house: and when the father of the damsel saw him, he rejoiced to meet him.
Judges 19:3 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Judges provides a glimpse into the cultural norms and practices of ancient times. In this particular passage, we see a husband going after his wife who had left him, with the intention of speaking kindly to her and bringing her back home. It is interesting to note that the husband brings along his servant and a couple of donkeys for the journey, indicating the importance of his mission. When they arrive at the wife's father's house, the father is overjoyed to see his son-in-law and welcomes him with open arms. This gesture highlights the value placed on family relationships and the importance of reconciliation.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the book of Judges, we see the husband of a woman who had left him, going after her to reconcile. This act can be seen as a reflection of God's pursuit of his people, always seeking to bring them back into relationship with Him. The mention of the husband bringing his servant and a couple of asses with him could symbolize the resources and assistance he had at his disposal to achieve his goal, illustrating how God equips us and provides for us as we seek to reconcile with Him. The father's joy at seeing the husband returning with the woman could also represent the joy in heaven over a sinner who repents. This verse can be a powerful reminder of God's unfailing love and faithfulness towards us, always willing to reconcile and restore us to Himself, no matter how far we may have strayed.
Judges 19:3 in other translations
American Standard Version
And her husband arose, and went after her, to speak kindly unto her, to bring her again, having his servant with him, and a couple of asses: and she brought him into her father's house; and when the father of the damsel saw him, he rejoiced to meet him.
World English Bible
Her husband arose, and went after her, to speak kindly to her, to bring her again, having his servant with him, and a couple of donkeys: and she brought him into her father’s house; and when the father of the young lady saw him, he rejoiced to meet him.
Douay-Rheims
And her husband followed her, willing to be reconciled with her, and to speak kindly to her, and to bring her back with him, having with him a servant and two asses: and she received him, and brought him into her father's house. And when his father in law had heard this, and had seen him, he met him with joy,
Geneva Bible (1599)
And her husband arose and went after her, to speake friendly vnto her, and to bring her againe: he had also his seruant with him, and a couple of asses: and she brought him vnto her fathers house, and when the yong womans father sawe him, he reioyced of his comming.