Definition: And there was not a man left in Ai or Bethel, that went not out after Israel: and they left the city open, and pursued after Israel.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from Joshua 8:17. It’s a really dramatic story about God’s judgment on a wicked city. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Ai was a terrible place: The verse starts with the destruction of the city of Ai, which was a very important and prosperous settlement. Everyone fled: After the city was destroyed, everyone – including the people who had lived there for many years – ran away. There wasn't a single person left behind. The City Was Open: This is key. They just left the city completely open, like a huge gateway. What happened next? They Pursued After Israel: As they fled, they didn’t stop! They kept chasing after Israel – meaning the Israelites . God decided that they needed to be punished for their wickedness and disobedience. In simpler terms, it means: God was angry with Ai because it was a sinful and ungrateful place. He chose to punish them by forcing everyone to flee, and then he relentlessly pursued after the Israelites to make sure they wouldn’t escape. The Significance & Interpretation: This story is often seen as a powerful demonstration of God's justice and his willingness to take action against evil. It highlights: God’s Sovereignty: God is in control and doesn't tolerate wickedness. Divine Punishment: He uses punishment to protect His people and purify the world. The Importance of Obedience: The story also emphasizes that obedience to God’s commands is crucial for avoiding consequences. Do you want me to explain anything else about this passage, such as its context in the larger narrative of the Bible? For example, I could tell you: What was happening before this event? Why was Ai so wicked?