Definition: And it shall be, when thou shalt hear a sound of going in the tops of the mulberry trees, [that] then thou shalt go out to battle: for God is gone forth before thee to smite the host of the Philistines.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Chronicles 14:15. It's a pretty dramatic and serious warning! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says: “If you hear a sound of approaching enemies – like them marching or coming to attack – then you must prepare for battle.” Let’s unpack that a little further: “When thou shalt hear a sound of going in the tops of the mulberry trees…” - This is a metaphor. The "mulberry trees" represent a safe, secure place – like the walls of Jerusalem or a fortified area. It's a place where God is protecting us. “[That] then thou shalt go out to battle.” - This means that if those approaching sounds are real , you need to be ready to fight. It’s not just a possibility; it’s a definite threat. “For God is gone forth before thee to smite the host of the Philistines.” – This is the most important part. "God is gone forth" means God is actively moving towards battle. "Smite the host of the Philistines” refers to the Philistine people, who were a rival tribe in the area near Israel at the time. God is deliberately choosing to attack and defeat them. What’s the message? This verse emphasizes that God is actively involved in protecting His people. It's a reminder that we shouldn’t be complacent or think it will just “go away.” We need to be prepared for a potential conflict, because God is on a mission to defend us. In a nutshell: It's a call to vigilance and readiness – always be aware of potential threats and be prepared to defend yourself and your nation. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail, or perhaps discuss its significance within the context of the Old Testament? For example, we could talk about: The historical background of the Philistines. Why God’s protection is important.