Definition: Now therefore give me this mountain, whereof the LORD spake in that day; for thou heardest in that day how the Anakims [were] there, and [that] the cities [were] great [and] fenced: if so be the LORD [will be] with me, then I shall be able to drive them out, as the LORD said.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 14:12. It's a really important and dramatic passage about God’s plan for conquering the Canaanites (the people who lived in the land before the Israelites). Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: The Anakims are still there: The verse starts by saying that the Anakims – a group of people who had been living in Canaan for a long time and were considered troublesome – are still present. They’ve built great cities: They've established large settlements, fortified towns, and even fenced off areas. This suggests they're a significant and powerful force to be dealt with. God heard them: The key part is that God heard of their presence – he specifically heard about the size and extent of their settlements. What’s God Asking For? “Give me this mountain…” : God wants Joshua, a leader, to take this specific mountain (we don't know exactly what kind of mountain it is, but it’s important). “…this mountain…for thou heardest in that day…” : This tells us that God has been watching and listening for a long time. He’s noticed their presence and heard about them through someone who was there. “…how the Anakims [were] there, and [that] the cities [were] great [and] fenced:” This is where it gets really significant. It describes the Anakims as being in a large, walled area with many fortifications (fences). This indicates they're organized and have strong defenses. God’s Plea – A Promise of Strength: “if so be the LORD [will be] with me…” : This is the core of the verse. God is saying, "If I receive your blessing, then I will be able to drive them out." It's a declaration of faith and trust in God’s power. In essence, this verse describes a situation where God is signaling his intention to completely destroy the Anakims. He's giving Joshua a chance to prove himself and demonstrate that God’s will is being followed. What does it mean for us? It’s a powerful message about God’s sovereignty and His plan of ultimate victory. It speaks to the idea that God can bring about seemingly impossible things through his power and judgment. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Connect it to a larger story or theme in the Bible?