Definition: Therefore we said, Let us now prepare to build us an altar, not for burnt offering, nor for sacrifice:

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Joshua 22:26. It’s a really important and slightly surprising part of the story! Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, the Israelites were planning to build a temple – a huge, ornate building dedicated to God – but they decided not to offer sacrifices. Let's unpack that a bit: “Therefore we said…” : This is a confession. They realized they’d made a mistake in their plan. “…let us now prepare to build us an altar…” : They were thinking about constructing a special structure, like a temple, as a place to worship God. "...not for burnt offering, nor for sacrifice:" This is the key part. They didn't want to offer sacrifices of animals (like lambs or goats) to be burned. They weren’t aiming for a ritualistic, sacrificial practice. Why did they do this? This verse speaks to a shift in their relationship with God. They had been focusing heavily on appeasing God through rituals and offerings. This verse shows them that they needed to refocus their worship towards God's love and faithfulness, not just to appease him with things. It was a recognition that true worship comes from a deeper connection with the divine. In short, it’s about moving away from a traditional, ritualistic approach to worship to a more personal and heartfelt relationship with God. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context for this story in the Bible?