Definition: And the children of Israel did secretly [those] things that [were] not right against the LORD their God, and they built them high places in all their cities, from the tower of the watchmen to the fenced city.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Kings 17:9. It’s a really important passage that speaks about a serious turning point in Israel's history. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: They disobeyed God: The Israelites were acting against God’s will. They were doing things that weren't right – essentially, they were disobeying the laws and instructions given to them by God. Built High Places: They started constructing massive, fortified cities and buildings high up . Think of it as building a fortress or a towering structure in their own homes and towns. From Watchmen to Fenced City: This shows they were creating these high places, but they weren’t just random structures. They were making them specifically for the watchmen – essentially, fortified areas designed to be guarded. And then they made it a “fenced city,” meaning they built walls and boundaries around these high places. What it's saying: This is a really concerning sign of rebellion and disobedience. It suggests that the Israelites were becoming increasingly isolated from God and prioritizing their own desires over following His instructions. They weren’t just building things; they were actively trying to escape or resist God's guidance. Why it’s significant: This event is a key part of the story leading up to the fall of Israel. It highlights: Their growing distance from God: They weren’t just being independent; they were actively trying to build their own way of life, separate from the covenant relationship with God. A turning point in history: This behavior was a significant step towards idolatry – worshipping idols and false gods instead of focusing on God. In short, this verse describes a period of disobedience and building that shows the Israelites drifting away from their relationship with God and setting themselves up for challenges. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Relate it to a specific event or story in the Bible?