Definition: So Joab and the people that [were] with him drew nigh before the Syrians unto the battle; and they fled before him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Chronicles 19:14. It’s a really important passage about courage and leadership! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says that Joab and the people he was leading fled before the Syrian army. Let’s unpack that a little further: “So Joab and the people that [were] with him” : This tells us who was involved. Joab was a leader, and he had a group of people following him. “Drew nigh” : This means they moved closer to the battlefield. It’s like walking towards it. “Before him” : This is key! They were fleeing before Joab. The Context Matters – Why was this happening? This verse comes from a time when the Israelites were facing a powerful enemy, the Syrians. The Syrian army was a big threat, and it was a really difficult situation for the Israelites. 1 Chronicles 19 describes the Israelites as being in a precarious position. So, Joab and his followers – likely soldiers and warriors – knew they needed to get away from the danger. What’s the message here? This verse is about bravery and obedience. It shows that even when facing a daunting challenge, it's important to stay true to your leadership and flee before you become vulnerable. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best thing to do is to prioritize safety over fighting. In short: Joab and his followers were fleeing because they knew they were in danger, demonstrating courage and prioritizing their safety. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this passage in a broader context (like the history of the Israelites)?