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.
The man who owned the house went outside to them and said, 'No, my brothers, please don't do such a wicked thing! Since this man has come into my house as my guest, don't commit this terrible act.'
The homeowner is pleading with the violent mob outside his door to not harm his guest, appealing to their sense of right and wrong and the sacred duty of hospitality.
📚 Historical Context
This occurs during the dark period of the Judges when Israel had no king and moral chaos prevailed. The story parallels the account of Sodom and Gomorrah, showing how far Israel had fallen into depravity. Ancient Near Eastern hospitality customs made protecting guests a sacred obligation, even at great personal cost.
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.