Definition: And when Joshua and all Israel saw that the ambush had taken the city, and that the smoke of the city ascended, then they turned again, and slew the men of Ai.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 8:21. It's a really significant moment in the story of the Israelites’ conquest of Canaan. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: They were trapped: The Israelites were camped near Jericho – a huge, fortified city – and they were caught in an ambush by the Philistines (a group of people who lived in the area). Smoke signaled danger: As the smoke from the city rose, it told them that the attackers were still there. They fought back: Joshua and all the Israelites, feeling a sense of urgency, immediately turned around and began to fight. They attacked the Philistine soldiers who had been ambushing them. What this verse says in simpler terms: “When Joshua and all Israel saw that the ambush had taken the city, and that the smoke of the city ascended, then they turned again, and slew the men of Ai.” "Joshua and all Israel" : This means all of the Israelites were involved – not just Joshua. "the ambush had taken the city..." - This refers to a specific attack by the Philistines that was happening right before this. "...and that the smoke of the city ascended..." : The smoke meant the attackers were hiding, and their presence was obvious. "...then they turned again..." : This is a crucial part – they immediately changed direction and started fighting. It wasn’t a long pause; they went straight for the attackers. "...and slew the men of Ai." : This means they defeated the people of Ai, who were the attackers from the area where this city was located. What's the big takeaway? This verse is a powerful example of God’s power and swift judgment. It shows that when God calls us to action, we must respond decisively. It highlights that God doesn't just wait – He intervenes and actively uses His people to defeat evil. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific part of the verse in more detail? Connect this story to another Bible passage?