Definition: And after him Abdon the son of Hillel, a Pirathonite, judged Israel.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 12:13: “And after him Abdon the son of Hillel, a Pirathonite, judged Israel.” Here's what it means in simpler terms: Essentially, this verse tells us that after the leader known as Abadon played a crucial role, he continued to oversee and guide people in Israel. Let’s unpack it further: “And after him…”: This establishes a sequence of events. It's about someone who came before Abadon. “Abdon the son of Hillel…”: Abadon was a specific person – we don’t know his name, but he was a leader called "Hillel." “Hillel” is a Hebrew name that means "the wise one" or “the teacher.” This suggests he had wisdom and experience. “…a Pirathonite…”: “Pirathonite” is a word from the ancient Near East. It refers to a group of people who lived in a specific region near the Mediterranean Sea – specifically, the area around modern-day Lebanon. They were known for their seafaring skills and trading practices. “…judged Israel.”: This means he was responsible for overseeing and leading the Israelites during a difficult time. He probably helped them navigate challenges, make decisions, and maintain order. In short, this verse highlights Abadon’s leadership and his continued role in guiding the people of Israel after he was done. Why is this important? This story is significant because it shows that leadership can continue even after someone has left their position. It demonstrates a pattern of responsibility and guidance throughout history. --- Do you want to know more about: The context of the story in Judges 12? The significance of the word "Pirathonite"? How this verse connects to other stories in the Bible?