Definition: And under it [was] the similitude of oxen, which did compass it round about: ten in a cubit, compassing the sea round about. Two rows of oxen [were] cast, when it was cast.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 4:3. It’s a really interesting and symbolic passage! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a large group of oxen being arranged in a circle around a large, shimmering pool (the "sea"). Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And under it [was] the similitude of oxen…” – This is key. The verse isn’t describing actual oxen; it’s using “similitude” to mean a representation or an analogy. It’s saying that the arrangement was designed to show something important. “…which did compassit round about:” – "Compassit" means to turn around, to circle. So, the oxen are circling like a wheel. “Ten in a cubit…” – “A cubit” is a unit of measurement in ancient times – roughly equivalent to 12 inches or 30 centimeters. So, there were ten oxen arranged in a circle, each about 12 inches apart. “…compassing the sea round about.” - This is where it gets really symbolic. The circle of oxen around the pool represents something vast and immense – perhaps the whole world, or God’s plan for humanity. The “sea” symbolizes all of creation and everything in it. “Two rows of oxen [were] cast…” - This indicates that there were two groups of oxen arranged within the circle. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: The verse is a powerful image used to describe God’s plan for Israel. It conveys: God’s Sovereignty: He is arranging things in a grand, encompassing way – like he’s creating and controlling everything. Divine Purpose: The arrangement points to a purposeful design by God for the nation of Israel. The Importance of His Plan: It emphasizes that God has a plan and is working out his purposes even in seemingly small details. In short, it's a visual representation of God’s ultimate plan for humanity – a complete and encompassing creation. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Discuss its historical context? Explore what this imagery might symbolize in a broader theological sense?