Definition: If thou shalt afflict my daughters, or if thou shalt take [other] wives beside my daughters, no man [is] with us; see, God [is] witness betwixt me and thee.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Genesis 31:50. It’s a really significant passage in the Bible that speaks about a trick and a consequence! Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: God is telling Jacob (the patriarch of Israel) to be careful with his wives, Leah and Rachel. He’s sending a giant bear to steal their sons – Esau and Jacob. What the Verse Says - Let’s unpack it: “If thou shalt afflict my daughters…” : This means Jacob is being threatened or angered by someone who is hurting his wives, particularly Leah and Rachel. “Afflict” in this context means to harm, to torment, or to cause pain. “…or if thou shalt take [other] wives beside my daughters…” : This part is a little more complex. It’s saying that Jacob isn’t just being targeted by someone who steals his sons. He's also being threatened by anyone who has relationships with his wives – other women – and takes them as partners. “no man [is] with us…” : This is the crucial part! God is saying that everything is being held back because of this situation. It’s a sign that something terrible is happening, and it's not just between Jacob and his people. What it Means - The Bigger Picture: This verse is about divine judgment and protection. It means: God is watching over us. He sees the potential for trouble and is actively intervening to keep things safe. He’s punishing those who would harm his family. It's a warning that someone shouldn't be taking advantage of Jacob's situation or relationships with his wives. It’s a test of faith. It highlights the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God’s will. In short, it’s a story about a dangerous situation where God is protecting his family by stopping anyone from harming them. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a warning against jealousy and manipulative relationships. It's a reminder that God’s love is stronger than any challenge! --- Would you like me to: Explain the context of this verse within the larger story of Genesis? Discuss what this verse might symbolize in general Bible stories?