Definition: And Jehoash the king of Israel sent to Amaziah king of Judah, saying, The thistle that [was] in Lebanon sent to the cedar that [was] in Lebanon, saying, Give thy daughter to my son to wife: and there passed by a wild beast that [was] in Lebanon, and trode down the thistle.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible verse together. It’s a bit poetic, but it’s about a significant trade agreement between King Jehoash of Israel and King Judah – a kingdom located to the East. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: King Jehoash was sending a gift – a daughter – to King Amaziah of Judah. He wanted to give her as a marriage partner to his son, who was also named “the cedar that was in Lebanon.” But, the messenger (a traveler) brought news that this cedar tree was being protected by a wild beast – a lion or similar creature – and it was traversing the thistle fields. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “The thistle that [was] in Lebanon…” : This refers to the Thistle plant, which grows in Lebanon. “…sent to the cedar that [was] in Lebanon…” : This means King Jehoash sent a gift – specifically a daughter – to King Amaziah of Judah. “Give thy daughter to my son to wife: and there passed by a wild beast that [was] in Lebanon, and trode down the thistle.” : This is the most complicated part. It describes a journey or trade. Here's what it’s saying: “There passed by…” : A traveler was traveling along this route. “…a wild beast that [was] in Lebanon” : This means there was a lion, or another dangerous animal, roaming near the thistle plants. “trode down the thistle” : The traveler’s path was blocked by the thorny thistle plants. Overall Meaning & Significance: The verse is a bit mysterious, but it suggests a strategic partnership. King Jehoash was giving a valuable daughter to King Amaziah as a sign of alliance and trade. However, this arrangement wasn't without risk – it involved a dangerous journey with an animal that needed to be managed carefully. Why is this important? This verse shows: Trade & Diplomacy: It highlights the importance of establishing relationships through exchange – both goods (like the daughter) and alliances (through the trade agreement). Risk & Caution: The verse subtly hints at potential danger or challenges involved in this relationship. --- Do you want me to explain any of these parts in more detail, perhaps focusing on a particular aspect like the symbolism behind the thistle? Or would you like me to explore other Bible verses?