When Everyone Does What is Right in Their Own Eyes: Lessons from Judges 19
Judges 19 is often called a "text of terror"—and for good reason. It’s a grim tale of moral chaos, violence, and tragedy set in a time when "there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes" (Judges 21:25). This disturbing chapter forces us to confront the darkest corners of human nature, yet it also holds up a mirror to our world today. In an age where moral relativism often shapes our decisions, the story of the Levite and his concubine speaks powerfully to issues like the sanctity of life, the consequences of sin, and the urgent call for justice. Let’s dive into this ancient text and uncover what it can teach us about navigating today’s moral landscape. The Story of Judges 19: A Summary Set during Israel’s spiritually chaotic period, Judges 19 follows a Levite from Ephraim whose concubine leaves him and returns to her father’s home in Bethlehem. After a brief reconciliation, they set out together, stopping for the night in Gibeah, a city o...