Definition: Neither shall one thrust another; they shall walk every one in his path: and [when] they fall upon the sword, they shall not be wounded.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Joel 2:8. It’s a really powerful and symbolic passage about forgiveness and reconciliation. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse speaks about the possibility of healing and restoration after a period of conflict or division. It essentially says that after there's a time of hurt and anger, people will be able to live together peacefully again. Let’s unpack it word by word: “Neither shall one thrust another” : This means we shouldn't continue to fight or harm each other. It’s about avoiding aggression and violence. It’s a call for peace. “they shall walk every one in his path” : This is the key part. "Walk in his path" refers to following each other, living in harmony, and being respectful of each other's way of life. It means aligning with others and understanding their perspectives. “[when] they fall upon the sword” : This is where it gets interesting. “Falling upon the sword” symbolizes a defeat – often war, conflict, or a loss of something important. “they shall not be wounded” : This means after that defeat, there will be healing and restoration. The people will be able to live together without fear of further harm. In simpler terms, it's about: It’s a promise of reconciliation after conflict. It suggests that God desires peace and that through forgiveness and understanding, the wounds of past disagreements can heal and allow for a new era of harmony. Context & Significance: This verse is often interpreted as referring to the rebuilding of Israel after the Babylonian exile (the time when the Israelites were conquered). It’s a message of hope about God's ability to restore broken relationships and bring people back together. Do you want me to elaborate on any specific aspect of this verse? For example, I could: Explain its significance within the Old Testament context. Discuss its symbolism beyond just war? Give you a related story or example?