Definition: And it came to pass, while the ark abode in Kirjathjearim, that the time was long; for it was twenty years: and all the house of Israel lamented after the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 7:2. It’s a really important passage about God's plan to save His people. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says that for twenty long years, Israel was deeply sad and worried because they didn’t believe God would deliver them from their problems. Let’s unpack that a little further: “While the ark abode in Kirjathjearim…” – This refers to the city of Kirjathjearim, which was a very important place for the Israelites. It was a place they had been praying and waiting for. “…that the time was long…” – It wasn’t just a short period; this was a significant amount of time. Think of it as a long, drawn-out struggle. “and all the house of Israel lamented after the LORD.” - This is the key part. "The house of Israel" means all the Israelites – the people God had chosen to be saved. "Lamented" means they were sad and crying out in despair. They felt like God wasn’t listening to them, or that He wasn't going to help. So, what was happening? The Israelites weren’t believing in God’s promises. They were focused on their own problems (like the sin of idolatry – worshipping other gods) and they didn’t want to listen to God’s guidance. Then, God decided to intervene. He had a plan – He would deliver them from their troubles by giving them a king who would be devoted to Him. He chose Saul, the first king of Israel, as that person! In short, this verse describes a period of deep sadness and waiting for the Israelites because they didn’t believe in God's promises. It was a crucial moment where God showed His power and plan to ultimately save them. Does that make sense? Do you want me to explain any part of it further or perhaps give another example?