Definition: Did not Achan the son of Zerah commit a trespass in the accursed thing, and wrath fell on all the congregation of Israel? and that man perished not alone in his iniquity.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Joshua 22:20. It’s a really important and complex passage about a serious situation. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Achan was a young man. He lived in a village called Zerah. He was involved in a big problem: He brought a strange, precious metal – likely gold – to the temple of Yahweh (God). This was a significant religious act. He committed a terrible sin: He stole the metal! It’s described as a “trespass” – meaning it was a violation of God's rules and laws. The Temple Was Damaged: The temple itself was damaged by the theft. Wrath Falls Upon Everyone: This is the key part. Everyone in the village, including the priests and leaders, were outraged and furious. They felt deeply betrayed and attacked Achan. What Happened Next? Achan Perished Alone: Instead of being killed by the angry crowd, Achan died alone . This is a crucial detail – it shows that his death wasn't caused by a single violent act but was a consequence of the entire community’s wrath. It's like he died peacefully and without causing further harm. What Does It Mean? This verse is about the consequences of pride and transgression. It highlights several important points: Pride Can Lead to Serious Consequences: Achan’s pride in his possession of the metal was a major problem. It shows that excessive pride can lead people to do wrong. The Importance of Obedience: The verse underscores the importance of following God's laws and commandments. When people act out of selfishness or arrogance, they risk facing severe punishment. God’s Justice: It also speaks to God's justice – He doesn’t simply punish individuals; He punishes those who disregard His law. In a nutshell, this verse is a story about the dangers of pride and the consequences when people act against God's will. Important Note: The Bible sometimes uses figurative language to describe events. It’s not always easy to fully understand every detail, but this verse provides a significant and thought-provoking glimpse into a challenging situation in ancient Israelite history. --- Do you have any specific questions about this verse that you'd like me to answer? For example: Are you curious about the context of the story? Would you like me to explain a particular aspect of the verse further?