Definition: And he went from year to year in circuit to Bethel, and Gilgal, and Mizpeh, and judged Israel in all those places.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 7:16. It's a really important passage about God’s relationship with the people of Israel. Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, it says that God was actively involved in dealing with the Israelites – both before and after they were established in their land. Here’s a breakdown of each part: “He went from year to year in circuit…” - This describes a long, repeated journey. It wasn't a quick trip; it was a consistent movement. Think of it like someone traveling constantly. “…to Bethel, Gilgal, Mizpeh, and… ” – These are specific places that were important to the Israelites, particularly in their early history. They were key locations for religious gatherings and events. “And judged Israel in all those places.” - This is the core of the verse. God was actively watching these places, observing them, and judging them. It means he was constantly monitoring how the Israelites were behaving and making decisions about them. So, what does this tell us? It suggests that God had a very close relationship with Israel from the beginning. He wasn’t just passively watching; he was actively involved in guiding their lives, offering protection, and sometimes even intervening to ensure they stayed on the right path. It implies a sense of responsibility and concern for the Israelites' well-being. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as God promising to restore the throne of Saul (the king of Israel) back to David, who was previously the king. It's a significant step in God’s plan to establish David as King. --- Do you want me to explain any of these points further? For example, would you like me to: Explain the context of this verse within the larger story of Israel's history? Discuss what it might mean for God to "judge" people? Or perhaps delve into the significance of David’s return as a result of this event?