Definition: Then he took his eldest son that should have reigned in his stead, and offered him [for] a burnt offering upon the wall. And there was great indignation against Israel: and they departed from him, and returned to [their own] land.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Kings 3:27 together. It's a really powerful and dramatic passage in the Book of Judges. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: A King is Missing: The story begins with King David’s son, Solomon, who was supposed to be the next king of Israel. He was meant to be the leader and ruler. A Replacement Is Made: However, something terrible happened – Solomon's eldest son, Rehoboam, died unexpectedly. Instead of having a replacement king, David took his second oldest son, Jehoram, and offered him as a burnt offering on the wall of the temple. What’s Happening - It’s a Sign of Disbelief & Anger: Great Indignation: The people of Israel were incredibly angry and shocked. They felt deeply betrayed by David's actions. They Left & Returned: They immediately packed up their belongings and left the land, returning to their own homes. This wasn’t a peaceful departure; it was a clear sign of deep distress and resentment. What It Means – A Warning About Choices & Consequences: This verse is often interpreted as a warning about making bad choices and the potential consequences they can bring. It's saying: Sometimes, decisions that seem good in the moment can lead to terrible results. The “Burning Offering” - A Symbolic Punishment: The act of offering someone as a burnt offering was a very serious punishment, representing the destruction of faith and trust. It symbolized that David’s choices were causing pain and trouble for his people. It's About Trust & Faith: The verse is reminding us to trust God and be careful with our decisions. David made a mistake, and it had repercussions. In short, this story shows how even seemingly small mistakes can have significant consequences. --- Do you want me to explain anything in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain the symbolism behind the burning offering? Discuss the context of 2 Kings 3? (It’s part of a larger story about David and his reign)