Definition: And he dealt wisely, and dispersed of all his children throughout all the countries of Judah and Benjamin, unto every fenced city: and he gave them victual in abundance. And he desired many wives.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 11:23. It’s a bit complex, but we can understand it as a story about a powerful king who was trying to build a kingdom and secure his legacy. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Story: This verse describes a king named Ahab who was incredibly wealthy and powerful. He had a large family and wanted to spread them out across the entire region of Judah (a part of Israel) and Benjamin, essentially creating a vast empire. He wasn’t just looking for a simple inheritance; he wanted to control everyone in that area. Let's unpack it piece by piece: "And he dealt wisely..." - This means the king made a smart choice – he was strategic. "...and dispersed of all his children throughout all the countries of Judah and Benjamin..." - He separated his family members into different places. He wasn't just scattering them randomly; he deliberately moved them to various cities and areas, creating a network of influence. "...unto every fenced city:" - This is key! "Fenced city" refers to fortified towns or settlements. The king was building a network of strong, protected areas. "...and he gave them victual in abundance." – He provided generous amounts of food and resources to these dispersed families. It suggests he wanted to ensure their survival and comfort. “And he desired many wives.” - This is the really interesting part. The king wasn't just interested in wealth; he was also focused on building a large family. He wanted to create a large, powerful lineage that would continue his rule and influence. What does it mean? This verse suggests a pattern of power and control by this king. He used his wealth and position to strategically move his family members away from the main population centers, establishing a network of influence across the land. It’s a story about ambition, strategic placement, and a desire for lasting legacy. Important Note: This story is part of a larger narrative in the Bible that highlights themes of power, greed, and the dangers of unchecked ambition. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage within the Old Testament? Or perhaps explore a related theme like the concept of "inheritance" in biblical stories?