Definition: And [there was] an hole in the midst of the robe, as the hole of an habergeon, [with] a band round about the hole, that it should not rend.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Exodus 39:23. It’s a really important and slightly mysterious passage in the Book of Genesis and is often interpreted as a key to understanding God’s plan for the creation of the world. Here’s what it means, broken down simply: What it describes: “An hole in the midst of the robe…” – Think of a piece of cloth hanging on a sewing machine. This “hole” represents a gap or opening within the fabric of the divine plan. “…as the hole of an habergeon…” – Now, this is where it gets really interesting. “Habergeon” is a historical term for a tool used to create holes in cloth – essentially, a sewing machine stitch. So, this "hole" is like a tiny stitch that was deliberately made within the fabric. “…with a band round about the hole…” - This adds a protective layer around the opening. It's not just a random gap; it’s meticulously crafted and secured. What it means – The Overall Idea: This verse describes God creating the fabric of the world (the “robe” in this context) with a specific pattern and structure, including a tiny, carefully placed stitch. It’s like saying, "God is working out the details of how everything will be created." Why it's significant: Order & Purpose: The verse highlights that God wasn't just haphazardly creating things; He was establishing a purposeful order . Every part of the world – the earth, plants, animals, and humans – had to fit together in a way that made sense. Divine Design: It suggests that God is actively involved in shaping reality. He’s not passively creating; He’s meticulously arranging everything according to His plan. Important Note: This is one of the most debated passages in the Bible! Different interpretations exist, and there's no single "correct" understanding. Some see it as a literal depiction of a sewing tool, while others view it as symbolic representing God’s creative act. --- Resources if you want to learn more: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/Exodus%2039%2023](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/Exodus%2039%2023) (Provides a good overview and different interpretations) Wikipedia - Exodus 39: [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exodus_39](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exodus_39) (A more detailed explanation of the context and meaning) --- Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Discuss a specific interpretation of this passage?