Definition: And the LORD discomfited them before Israel, and slew them with a great slaughter at Gibeon, and chased them along the way that goeth up to Bethhoron, and smote them to Azekah, and unto Makkedah.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 10:10. It’s a really powerful and dramatic passage about God's judgment on the Israelites. Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Story: This verse describes a massive, swift, and brutal defeat of the Israelites by God. It happened after a period of conflict and rebellion. Let’s unpack it word-by-word: “And the LORD discomfited them…” - This is a key phrase. “Discomfited” means to upset or irritate someone, but in this context, it means to frustrate or defeat them. God was actively causing trouble for the Israelites. “…before Israel…” – This refers back to the time of Joshua’s leadership and the period where the Israelites were under his command. It's about a specific event that happened before the later events described. “…and slew them with a great slaughter…” - This is the most violent part of the verse. God didn’t just “defeat” them; He actively killed them in a huge and devastating battle. “Great Slaughter” suggests a massive number of people were killed. “…at Gibeon…” – Gibeon was a significant city, likely an important stronghold for the Israelites. It was chosen as the location for the subsequent trials. “…and chased them along the way that goeth up to Bethhoron…” - The Israelites were being pushed further south toward Bethhoron, a city located on a route towards Jerusalem. They were being forced to travel in a specific direction. “…smote them to Azekah…” – Azekah was a place of pilgrimage and rest for the Israelites. They were being forced to return to this place. “…and unto Makkedah.” - Finally, they were being directed towards Makkad, a city that held a significant religious significance for the Israelites. The Overall Meaning: God’s judgment wasn't just about a single battle; it was a series of escalating events designed to thoroughly punish the Israelites for their rebellion and disobedience. He deliberately chose Gibeon, Bethhoron, Azekah, and Makkad as locations where he would inflict his wrath. It was a display of God’s power and a way to remind them of the consequences of their choices. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a sign that the Israelites were on the verge of complete separation from God and a future time of judgment. It's a dramatic reminder of God’s sovereignty and his commitment to justice. --- Do you want me to: Explain this passage in more detail? Connect it to other stories or scriptures? Give you a different perspective on the meaning of this verse?