Definition: And Iron, and Migdalel, Horem, and Bethanath, and Bethshemesh; nineteen cities with their villages.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 19:38. It's a really significant and powerful passage about God’s judgment and the rebuilding of a city. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: God is sending his armies to destroy the Philistine city of Migdalel, Horem, and Bethanath. These three cities – Migdalel, Horem, and Bethanath – were all very important places for the Philistines. What God Did: God then specifically declares that he will destroy them all with a devastating attack. He uses an incredibly powerful weapon: iron . He also says he will target specific villages within these cities. The Details - It’s a Lot More Than Just Iron: The verse goes on to list the exact names of the nine cities that were targeted. This isn't just about using iron; it’s a symbolic representation of God’s complete and utter power in judgment. It’s like saying, “I will destroy these places with everything I have.” What It Means – A Powerful Message: This verse is a vivid picture of God’s righteous wrath. It speaks to several key things: God's Justice: It shows that God is completely just and will not tolerate evil. His Power: It highlights God’s absolute control over his enemies. He isn’t just sending troops; he’s using a force far beyond human strength. The Importance of Cities: It emphasizes the significance of these cities – they were centers of power and prosperity for the Philistines, and God is punishing them severely. In short, Joshua 19:38 tells us that God will unleash a terrible punishment upon the Philistines with devastating force, using iron and specifically targeting their most important cities. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail, perhaps focusing on a specific aspect (like its symbolism or historical context)?