Definition: That which was torn [of beasts] I brought not unto thee; I bare the loss of it; of my hand didst thou require it, [whether] stolen by day, or stolen by night.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Genesis 31:39. It’s a really fascinating story about a young man, Joseph, and God's plan to protect him. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Story: God decides that Joseph is going to be a servant of his brothers. This is a big deal because it means Joseph will be in trouble with his father, Jacob, and the entire family. To protect him, God sends his angel to trick Joseph into leading a large group of animals – sheep, goats, and donkeys – into a cave. What Happened Next: Joseph, being clever and resourceful, manages to escape the situation! He then cleverly uses his wits to get the animals back and, in the process, steals some of their belongings – including a favorite goat. The Key Point - It’s About Responsibility: Now, here's the really important part: God says that Joseph didn’t take the animals for himself . He brought the loss of them. He was responsible for the consequences of his actions. It wasn't about him being greedy; it was a consequence of his cleverness and disobedience. What Does It Mean? This verse highlights several important ideas: God’s Care: God is incredibly concerned for his people, even when they make mistakes. He doesn’t just punish them; he has a plan to protect them. Accountability: Joseph showed that even the most clever person can be held accountable for their choices. It emphasizes that we are responsible for our actions. Divine Providence: God is working in mysterious ways to guide events and protect those He loves. In short, it’s a story about how God protects us from our mistakes while also showing that even the cleverest of people must answer for their choices. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, I could: Explain the symbolism behind the animals being stolen. Discuss the role of the angel. Connect it to a broader theme about God's protection and responsibility?