Definition: And a third part [shall be] at the gate of Sur; and a third part at the gate behind the guard: so shall ye keep the watch of the house, that it be not broken down.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible verse together. It’s a pretty serious passage about protecting something important. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is telling us to be vigilant and protect a specific area – the “gate of Sur” – from danger. It’s essentially saying, "You need to keep an eye on this place and defend it against trouble." Let's unpack it word by word: “And a third part [shall be] at the gate of Sur…” - This refers to a specific location, likely a fortified area or a boundary. “Sur” is a Hebrew name for a particular region. It’s important to understand this isn’t just any place; it's a strategic point. “…and a third part at the gate behind the guard…” - This means there are two more groups of people – one guarding the front, and another guarding the back. “So shall ye keep the watch of the house, that it be not broken down.” – This is the key instruction. “Watch” means to keep an eye on something, to be alert and aware. "The house" refers to a specific building or place – likely a temple or important area. “Not broken down” means it shouldn’t fall into bad hands, or be damaged by trouble. What does this all mean in a broader context? This verse is part of the Book of Judges and speaks about the Israelites' long-term security as they were migrating through a dangerous land. It emphasizes the importance of: Preparedness: Being ready to defend against threats. Constant Vigilance: Not letting your guard down, always looking out for danger. Duty & Responsibility: Recognizing that protecting something is a weighty and important task. In short, it’s a call to be protective and watchful of a vital location. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of what "the house" might be? Connect it to a specific story or event in the Bible?