Definition: Then came the messengers to Gibeah of Saul, and told the tidings in the ears of the people: and all the people lifted up their voices, and wept.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down that verse from 1 Samuel 11:4. It’s a really important and somewhat sad passage about betrayal and injustice. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Story: Saul was King of Israel: In the Old Testament, Saul was a king who was incredibly ambitious and prone to making bad decisions. He had many wives and children, and he wasn't very good at keeping his promises. The Messengers Come: A group of messengers – people who were closely connected to Saul’s family – came to the town of Gibeah (which is a region near Jerusalem) and told the people about something terrible that had happened to Saul. What Happened? Saul's Wife Betrayed Him: The messengers revealed that Saul's wife, Hannah, was having an affair with another man. She was also pregnant with Saul’s child. The People Mourned: This news was devastating for the people of Gibeah. They were heartbroken and wept – a very emotional response to such bad news. What it Means – A Bit More Deeply: This verse isn't just about a lost wife; it speaks to a pattern of behavior in the Old Testament. It highlights: The Cycle of Betrayal: The story suggests that Saul’s actions and his tendency to be unfaithful led to this betrayal. It shows that even powerful leaders can be vulnerable to temptation and deceit. Justice and Punishment: The weeping of the people is a sign that they felt the injustice of the situation. It's a reminder that God sees these wrongs and will hold those who harm others accountable. In short, it’s a story about betrayal, sadness, and the consequences of bad choices. --- Do you want to explore any aspect of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like to know: More about the context of the story? What this verse tells us about human nature? How it relates to other stories in the Bible?