Definition: And thou shalt see an enemy [in my] habitation, in all [the wealth] which [God] shall give Israel: and there shall not be an old man in thine house for ever.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 2:32. It's a really important and somewhat dramatic statement about the future of Israel. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God will always have an enemy in his land – specifically, in his people’s wealth and prosperity. And that enemy won’t just be a fleeting problem; it will last forever. Let's unpack the parts: “And thou shalt see an enemy [in my] habitation…” : This is a pretty direct way of saying “an enemy” – someone who wants to harm or disrupt Israel. It’s not just any enemy, but one that is present in their land and wealth. “…in all the wealth which God shall give Israel…” : This is crucial. God is giving Israel wealth – things like land, resources, trade, etc. It's a promise of plenty for them. “And there shall not be an old man in thine house for ever.” : This is the key part that highlights the permanence of the threat. It means that this enemy will never leave, and it will always be a presence in their lives – forever. What does it mean practically? It's a warning about the potential for conflict and instability. It suggests that there’s a constant risk that someone or something (the enemy) will try to take advantage of Israel's prosperity and disrupt their peace. The verse implies a long-term struggle, not just a temporary problem. Context & Significance: This verse is part of a larger story in the book of 1 Samuel, which describes God’s plan for Israel after they leave Egypt. It speaks to the challenge of maintaining peace and prosperity while also protecting their people from potential threats. It's often seen as a reminder that God’s protection is unwavering and will always be present. In short: This verse emphasizes God’s continued care for Israel, even when they are surrounded by wealth and success, and warns against the possibility of constant conflict or disruption. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Discuss its symbolism (e.g., what does it represent)? Compare it to a similar idea in other biblical texts?