Definition: Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man of Kabzeel, who had done many acts; he slew two lionlike men of Moab: also he went down and slew a lion in a pit in a snowy day.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this Bible verse together. It’s a pretty complex story, but we can understand it as a warning about a serious mistake made by King Jehoiada. Here’s the explanation: The Basic Story: Jehoiada was a good king: The verse starts with a description of Jehoiada as a kind and righteous leader. He was known for his bravery and commitment to justice. He made a terrible choice: Jehoiada did something incredibly wrong – he killed two people who were lionlike in their appearance. These people were from Moab, a nation that had been practicing idolatry (worshiping other gods). He punished them with violence: He then proceeded to kill a lion in a pit filled with snow. This was a brutal act of punishment for this transgression. Putting it Together – What’s the Message? This verse is a warning about the dangers of pride and seeking revenge. It suggests that Jehoiada, fueled by anger or perhaps a desire for glory, made a hasty and violent decision that had devastating consequences. Here's what it's saying: Pride & Judgment: The “lionlike” people represent those who were practicing idolatry. Jehoiada’s action was driven by pride – he believed he could punish them harshly, even if it meant a violent act. Unjust Punishment: The punishment wasn't just about killing two people; it was a deeply unjust and brutal act against a nation that had previously been dedicated to the worship of God. Important Note: This verse is part of a larger story in the Old Testament, and it’s often interpreted as a cautionary tale about the importance of seeking wisdom before acting decisively, especially when dealing with enemies or those who have offended you. Do you want me to delve deeper into any specific aspect of this verse? For example, we could discuss: The context of the story – why was this happening? The significance of the snow and the pit? How it relates to broader themes of justice and repentance?