Definition: And Caleb said, He that smiteth Kirjathsepher, and taketh it, to him will I give Achsah my daughter to wife.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Joshua 15:16. It’s a really significant and somewhat surprising story in the Bible! Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Situation: The Battle of Kirjathsepher: This was a major battle fought by the Israelites against the Philistines. The Philists were a powerful enemy force at that time. Caleb’s Request: Caleb, a leader of the Israelite army, asked his commander, Joshua, to take the city of Kirjathsepher. Kirjathsepher was strategically important because it controlled a vital trade route and had a strong defensive position. What Caleb Said & The Promise: "He that smiteth Kirjathsepher…" : Caleb essentially asked Joshua to destroy the city of Kirjathsepher. “…and taketh it…” : This is the crucial part. Caleb wasn’t just asking Joshua to destroy the city; he was asking him to take it . He wanted Joshua to take control of the city and its resources. What Caleb Promised: “To him will I give Achsah my daughter to wife.” : This is where it gets really strange. Caleb made a promise – he vowed that if Joshua took Kirjathsepher, he would give Achsah (his daughter) to him as his wife. This was a very significant and unusual agreement in the ancient world! The Significance & Why It's Important: It’s a Powerful Test of Faith: This story is often seen as a test of faith and loyalty. Caleb was asked to do something that would likely be considered extremely dangerous – taking a city by force. Demonstrates Caleb’s Strength: Caleb’s willingness to take on this challenge, despite the risks, demonstrated his courage and determination. It Hints at Later Events: While we don't know exactly what happened with Achsah, this story is often interpreted as a foreshadowing of Joshua's later leadership and the eventual victory over the Philistines. It shows that even when faced with difficult choices, faith and commitment can lead to unexpected outcomes. In short, this verse highlights Caleb’s unwavering loyalty, his willingness to take risks for what he believed was right, and the potential consequences of his actions. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific part of the story in more detail? Discuss the historical context surrounding this passage?