Definition: And David spake unto the LORD when he saw the angel that smote the people, and said, Lo, I have sinned, and I have done wickedly: but these sheep, what have they done? let thine hand, I pray thee, be against me, and against my father’s house.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 24:17. It’s a really powerful and important passage about sin and repentance. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Story: David is facing a terrible situation – he's witnessing a devastating event where people are suffering because of his actions. He’s feeling incredibly ashamed and remorseful. He’s essentially saying, “I messed up. I did something wrong.” What’s Happening in the Verse: “And David spake unto the LORD when he saw the angel that smote the people…” – This means David was talking to God directly. He was overwhelmed by what he was seeing. “…and said, Lo, I have sinned, and I have done wickedly:” - David is admitting to having committed a serious wrong – something that’s morally bad and harmful. “Wickedly” means doing something that goes against God's will or principles. “But these sheep, what have they done?” – This is the crucial part. David isn't saying he did something bad; he's asking a rhetorical question about the people suffering. He’s pointing out that the people are being harmed because of his actions. What David is Asking: He’s essentially asking God: “How can I be held accountable for this? What kind of behavior has led to this misery?” He’s hoping for a divine judgment – a punishment to make him understand the gravity of his mistake. The Plea: David's plea is a desperate one: “Let thine hand, I pray thee, be against me, and against my father’s house.” This is a powerful command! He’s asking God to punish him for his sin, not just him , but also for the suffering caused by his actions. He's begging for divine justice and a way to make things right. Overall Meaning: This verse speaks about the consequences of sin and the importance of repentance (turning away from wrongdoing). It’s a moment of profound shame and a desperate plea for forgiveness and punishment. It highlights that even though David is human, his actions have real consequences, and he needs to take responsibility for them. In essence, it's a statement about acknowledging your mistakes and begging for God’s judgment. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Connect this passage to other Bible stories or themes (like repentance)?