Definition: Give out from among you three men for [each] tribe: and I will send them, and they shall rise, and go through the land, and describe it according to the inheritance of them; and they shall come [again] to me.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Joshua 18:4. It’s a pretty interesting and slightly mysterious passage about God’s plan for the Israelites in conquering Canaan (modern-day Israel and Palestine). Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: God is sending a team of people – three men representing each tribe – to thoroughly explore and document the land he’s giving to them. He wants to understand everything about it so he can ensure they use it wisely and build a good life for their people. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Give out from among you three men…” : This isn't just a casual request; God is deliberately choosing individuals. “…for each tribe:” : This means each tribe (a group of people) will be represented. It’s a structured way to ensure fairness and representation throughout the process. “and I will send them, and they shall rise, and go through the land…” : This is the key part – God is sending these three men out to travel and observe the land. They're going to be on a mission. “…and describe it according to the inheritance of them:” : This is where it gets interesting. God wants to understand what the land is like. He’s instructing them to meticulously record everything they see, hear, and experience – its beauty, its challenges, and its potential for prosperity. “and they shall come [again] to me.” : This suggests a return or a final evaluation of what God has entrusted to them. It implies that the process isn’t over; there's a final assessment to be done. In simpler terms: God is sending a small team – three men from each tribe – out to travel across the land and carefully document it. He wants to make sure they understand the land fully so he can guide them well and ensure their success. Why is this important? This verse speaks to several key ideas: God’s Sovereignty: It shows that God has a plan and is actively involved in shaping events. Careful Planning: It highlights the importance of thoughtful preparation and strategic action. Detailed Observation: It emphasizes the need for thorough investigation and understanding. Context is Key: This passage is part of a larger story about God’s plan to liberate the Israelites from their captivity in Egypt and establish them as a nation. It’s a step towards the eventual conquest of Canaan. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Relate it to another biblical passage?