Definition: How should one chase a thousand, and two put ten thousand to flight, except their Rock had sold them, and the LORD had shut them up?
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly powerful verse from Deuteronomy 32:30. It’s a really striking image of needing a strong foundation – a rock – for your life. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is about needing someone or something absolutely reliable and steadfast to keep you safe and protected. It's saying that without a solid, dependable support system, you’re incredibly vulnerable. Let’s unpack the parts: “How should one chase a thousand…” – This refers to pursuing a huge goal, a large number of things, or achieving great success. It’s about ambition and striving for something big. “…and two put ten thousand to flight…” – This is the crucial part. It means you're trying to achieve an enormous amount – perhaps reaching a significant milestone, becoming incredibly powerful, or accomplishing something truly remarkable – but you’re completely reliant on someone or something else. You’re putting yourself in a precarious situation where you’re completely dependent on another entity. “…except their Rock had sold them, and the LORD had shut them up?” – This is the key metaphor. “Their Rock” represents God (or a higher power). The verse describes a situation where someone or something else (represented by "sold them") has taken over your life, leaving you vulnerable and without support. The “LORD had shut them up” means that they are being controlled or held back. Putting it all together – the overall message: This verse is about the importance of having a consistent, dependable source of strength and protection in your life. It’s a warning against relying solely on yourself or anything unstable. It emphasizes: Dependability: You need someone or something that will always be there for you, even when things get tough. Security: A strong foundation is essential to avoid being vulnerable to problems and setbacks. Trust: The verse encourages trusting in God (or a higher power) as your source of strength and protection. In essence, the verse is a powerful reminder that true success isn’t about individual achievement alone; it's about having a solid support system. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of how this principle applies to different areas of life (like career, relationships, or personal growth)?