Definition: And the ark of God was taken; and the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, were slain.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 4:11. It’s a really significant story in the Bible about a time when the Israelites were in a difficult situation. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: God Sent an Ark: God decided to protect a special, holy object – an ark – from danger. It Was Taken: The Israelites’ priest, Samuel, was tasked with taking this ark to the temple in Jerusalem. Violence Happened: While he was carrying it, two of Eli's sons, Hophni and Phinehas, were killed. What Does It Mean? This verse tells us that when God chose to protect something incredibly important, even violence could happen. It’s a reminder that sometimes, even with the best intentions, things can go wrong because of human actions. Here's a slightly deeper understanding: The Ark Was Protected: The ark was meant to be a symbol of God's presence and protection for his people. It’s About Responsibility: The story highlights the importance of responsibility – the responsibility to protect something sacred. It suggests that even when we try our best, mistakes can happen. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a warning against violence and rebellion against God. It's a reminder that disobedience and wrongdoing can have consequences. Do you want me to go into more detail about any of these aspects? For example, would you like to know: Why this story is significant in the Bible? What does it teach us about trust in God?