Definition: And the children of Ammon came out, and put the battle in array before the gate of the city: and the kings that were come [were] by themselves in the field.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from 1 Chronicles 19:9. It's a really important part of understanding God’s plan for Israel during a time of great conflict. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a military preparation happening before a major battle begins. The Israelites are setting up their defenses and preparing to fight. Let's unpack the details: “And the children of Ammon came out…” : This refers to a group of people from the Ammonite tribe – a specific group in ancient Israel. They were known for being restless and sometimes rebellious. “…and put the battle in array before the gate of the city:” : This is a very precise description of how they’re preparing. They've arranged their soldiers, weapons, and fortifications to be ready for combat. “Array” means organized and prepared for action. “Before the gate of the city” indicates they are positioning themselves near a strategic location – likely a key entrance or area where they could launch an attack. “And the kings that were come [were] by themselves in the field.” : This is the crucial part. It's saying that kings , leaders of powerful nations, have arrived and are setting up their own forces within the city’s defenses. It suggests they are not just observing; they are actively participating in the preparation for war. What does this mean about the future? This verse is a sign that God is preparing Israel to defend itself against a powerful enemy. It’s a moment of intense anticipation and planning before a major conflict. The fact that the kings are present suggests a significant threat looming, and they're taking proactive steps to protect their own interests and potentially influence the outcome of the battle. In essence, it paints a picture of Israel being strategically positioned for a large-scale military confrontation. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Provide more context about the time period? Discuss the significance of this passage in the Bible's larger story?