Yet there is both straw and provender for our asses— The laws of hospitality were extremely sacred in ancient times; but the men of Gibeah, as they were grossly abandoned in vice, so were they wholly defective in this virtue, suffering this stranger, and traveller, to remain in the streets, without any invitation; which, at length, he received from a poor man who was himself only a sojourner among them. It should be remembered, that then, as now, there were no such things as inns in these countries; travellers usually carried with them not only provision for themselves, but for their beasts. Thus the Levite tells the old man, that he hath both straw and provender for his asses. The author of the Observations informs us, (p. 209.) that, as they have little or no hay in those countries, they are therefore very careful of their straw, which they cut into small pieces with an instrument, which, at the same time, thrashes out the corn. This chopped straw, with barley, beans, and balls made of bean and barley meal, or of the pounded kernels of dates, are what they are wont to feed them with. See 1 Kings 4:28. Isaiah 30:24.
REFLECTIONS.—Though the men of the city were so unkind or uncivil, there was one, though only a sojourner, who was of another spirit. He was an Ephraimite himself, but seems to have had some possessions near Gibeah; an old man, who had lived in better days, and consented not to the wickedness of the rising generation. Having spent the day industriously in the field, returning at night he sees and inquires into this stranger's business, and, ready to open his hospitable doors, receives him, doubly welcome as a Levite, and his countryman also. The Levite wanted nothing but a lodging, having sufficient provision and provender with him; but the good old man, too generous to permit this, entertains him at his table, and takes care of his cattle: this done, they, without doubt, began to look upon themselves as happy in the opportunity of spending a comfortable evening together. Note; (1.) A truly charitable heart looks out for, and is happy in an opportunity of doing good. (2.) The company of a minister of God is good payment for a hearty welcome. (3.) A good man will not wish to be troublesome to others when he has a provision of his own. (4.) We are sometimes rejoicing that our troubles are at an end, when we foresee not the darker cloud which is gathering.