Definition: And when he was gone, a lion met him by the way, and slew him: and his carcase was cast in the way, and the ass stood by it, the lion also stood by the carcase.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from 1 Kings 13:24. It’s a really important part of understanding how God’s plan for his people works. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: This verse describes a situation after the Israelites were freed from slavery in Egypt and were given land to settle. They were instructed by God to share their possessions equally with everyone else, and to care for the poor and needy. What Happened Next: A Lion Met Them: A lion – a powerful and dangerous wild animal – appeared to King Solomon’s herds of cattle while he was traveling. The Lion Killed the Lion: The lion attacked and killed the king. It was a brutal act, showing that even the most fearsome creatures can be defeated by God's justice. The Carcase Was Cast Away: After the lion died, its carcass (body) was left behind. The Ass Stood By It: A donkey (an ass) then stood beside the carcass. What it Means – The Core Message: This is a symbolic representation of God’s justice and care for his people. Here's what it signifies: God’s Justice: It shows that God isn’t just punishing the wicked; He’s also protecting the innocent and ensuring fairness. Divine Protection: The lion represents a powerful, unseen force of protection. God is safeguarding his people from harm. Sharing Equally: It highlights that God wants to share his blessings equally with everyone. The lions didn't take any of the wealth; they were left behind as a reminder of what’s being shared. Care and Consideration: The donkey symbolizes the care and attention God gives to his people – even those who are vulnerable. In short, this verse illustrates that God doesn’t just punish evil, He also protects good and ensures fairness. It's a powerful image of a divine guardian watching over his people. --- Do you have any specific questions about this passage you’d like me to answer? For example: Are you curious about its historical context? Would you like me to explain it in another way?