Definition: And them that had escaped from the sword carried he away to Babylon; where they were servants to him and his sons until the reign of the kingdom of Persia:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 36:20. It’s a pretty dramatic statement about a group of people who survived a difficult time. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: They were attacked: The verse tells us that a group of people, likely Israelites or people associated with the temple, were attacked by enemies (the "sword" – which could represent war or conflict). Escaped and Were Taken: They managed to escape the fighting and fled to Babylon. Became Servants: They were then given a role as servants to King Nebuchadnezzar II of Babylon. Basically, they were treated like slaves but had a position of obedience and service. What it Means – A Bit More Layers: This verse is often interpreted in several ways, and it’s a bit complex. Here are some possibilities: A Period of Exile/Rest: It suggests a period of exile or rest for the people after a challenging time. Being treated as servants implies they were temporarily removed from their normal lives and placed under someone else's control. A Strategic Move: Some scholars believe this could be a strategic move by Nebuchadnezzar II to keep the Israelites under his control, preventing them from becoming independent or rebellious. A Symbol of Submission: It can also symbolize a period where people are submitted to authority – in this case, a powerful ruler like King Nebuchadnezzar. Important Note: The exact meaning and significance of this verse have been debated for centuries. It’s a complex passage that speaks to a specific historical moment and carries deeper symbolic weight. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the historical context of this verse? Explore a particular interpretation of it?