Definition: Observe thou that which I command thee this day: behold, I drive out before thee the Amorite, and the Canaanite, and the Hittite, and the Perizzite, and the Hivite, and the Jebusite.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 34:11. It's a really important passage about God’s power and a significant shift in how we understand his relationship with Israel. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: God is commanding all the nations of the Middle East – Amorites, Canaanites, Hittites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites – to leave the land that Israel has been occupying. He's essentially saying, “You need to leave this land, or face consequences.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Observe thou that which I command thee this day…” : This is a serious instruction from God. He's giving instructions to you . “…I drive out before thee the Amorite, and the Canaanite, and the Hittite, and the Perizzite, and the Hivite, and the Jebusite.” : This lists specific groups of people that God is removing from the land. Let's look at them: Amorites: An ancient group from the East. Canaanites: A group from the east of the Jordan River. Hittites: A group from the north. Perizzites: A group from the west side of the land. Hivites: A group from the south. Jebusites: A group from the southwest. What’s the point of this? This verse is a foundational part of God's plan to establish Israel as his chosen people. It’s about establishing a covenant with God and protecting His people. It's not just about removing these groups; it's about establishing a boundary, a protector, and a secure space for the Israelites. Important Context (Why this is significant): This verse comes after God reveals to Moses that he will be his lawgiver. It’s a crucial moment in Israel’s history because it marks the beginning of God’s special relationship with them. It's a symbolic act – God is actively removing these groups from the land, demonstrating his power and establishing a new order. In short, this verse describes God's complete removal of all nations from the land he has given to Israel as a covenant. --- Do you have any specific questions about this verse that you’d like me to answer? For example: Are you curious about its historical significance? Would you like me to explain it in a different way?