Definition: Of the Jews five times received I forty [stripes] save one.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this incredibly difficult passage from 2 Corinthians 11:24. It’s a really shocking and complex idea that’s been debated for centuries, and it’s important to understand what it really means. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about suffering and being treated unfairly. It speaks of a period of intense hardship and abuse suffered by Paul. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Of the Jews five times received I…” – This refers to a specific group of Jewish people who were involved in a brutal and prolonged assault on Paul. It’s not just any Jewish people; they were specifically targeted for their faith. “…forty [stripes] save one.” - This is the crucial part. "Stripes" likely refers to badges, markings, or symbols of ownership. The number “40” is significant and represents a very large amount – essentially 40 times the normal amount of suffering. “Save one” means that one individual was spared from complete devastation. So, what does this mean in practical terms? Paul’s suffering wasn't just a minor inconvenience or hardship. It was a sustained and deliberate assault on his life, body, and spirit. He was repeatedly attacked, abused, and humiliated by these people. It suggests that he endured a significant amount of pain and trauma throughout his time in prison and likely even after his release. Why is this important? This verse is often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of false teachers and those who deliberately seek to harm believers. It’s a reminder that: False prophets can be incredibly dangerous: They can manipulate and exploit people, inflicting pain and suffering for their own gain. We should be wary of those who are actively trying to undermine faith: It highlights the importance of discerning truth from falsehood. Important Note: It’s crucial to understand that this isn’t about any Jewish person being abusive. Paul was specifically targeted by a group who were determined to destroy him and his faith. In short, “Of the Jews five times received I forty [stripes] save one” is a stark reminder of intense suffering endured by Paul, urging us to be vigilant against those who seek to harm others. --- Disclaimer: I'm an AI Chatbot and not a biblical scholar. This explanation is based on general interpretations of the text and historical context. There’s ongoing debate among scholars about the precise meaning and significance of this passage. Would you like me to: Explain another part of 2 Corinthians 11? Discuss the historical context surrounding this verse? Offer a different perspective on its meaning?