Definition: And Abraham stretched forth his hand, and took the knife to slay his son.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important passage from Genesis 22:10. It’s a really complex story with layers of meaning, but here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Story: God told Abraham he would have to sacrifice his son Isaac as a test. Abraham was very upset and wanted to do what was right. He asked God to give him a sword, and then God told him to take it and kill Isaac. Here’s the breakdown in simpler terms: The Test: God is testing Abraham's faith and obedience. It's a challenge to show how steadfast he is before Him. Abraham's Reaction: Abraham, feeling overwhelmed and distressed, reached out his hand towards the knife. This shows his fear and desperation. The Action: He actually did take the knife and kill Isaac. What it Means - It’s More Than Just a Violent Act: This story is often interpreted as a pivotal moment in Abraham's life, and it carries deep significance: Divine Sovereignty: God is in control of everything, even when we don’t understand why. He didn't just tell Abraham to do this; He initiated the situation. Human Fallibility & Temptation: It shows that humans are capable of making terrible choices when they feel overwhelmed or tempted by evil. Faith and Obedience: It highlights the importance of trusting in God, even when things seem impossible. Abraham’s willingness to obey God, despite his fear, is a key part of the story. Important Note: It's important to remember that this story is interpreted differently throughout history. Different people have wrestled with its meaning for centuries. --- Would you like me to explain any of these points in more detail? For example, we could talk about: The symbolism of the knife and the sword The context of Genesis 22 within the larger story of creation and God's plan?