And the old man said: 'Peace be to you; leave all your wants to me only; only, do not spend the night in the square' (וַיֹּאמֶר הַזָּקֵן שָׁלוֹם לָךְ רַק כׇּל־צָרְכְךָ עָלַי רַק בָּרְחוֹב אַל־תָּלִינוּ) — the old man immediately offers hospitality and shelter, commanding them not to spend the night in the city square. His urgency and protective tone suggest that he recognizes the danger posed to travelers in Gibeah, particularly to a woman. His statement ``peace be to you'' (שָׁלוֹם לָךְ) offers the traditional greeting of safety and protection; he will assume responsibility for the travelers' care.

COMMUNITY REFLECTIONS

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