Definition: And the Spirit of the LORD came mightily upon him, and he rent him as he would have rent a kid, and [he had] nothing in his hand: but he told not his father or his mother what he had done.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 14:6. It's a really strange and dramatic passage! Here's the explanation in plain language: The Basic Story: This verse describes a powerful, terrifying moment when King Saul, who was already facing serious problems with his army, is attacked by God. He’s being forcefully pushed to the point of breaking. What’s Happening – It’s Like a Breakdown: “And the Spirit of the LORD came mightily upon him…” - This means God was intensely focused on Saul. It wasn't just a gentle blessing; it felt like a powerful, overwhelming presence. “…and he rent him as he would have rent a kid.” – This is the key part. Saul is being violently shaken and torn apart – literally ripped open! It’s like someone is pulling him apart with incredible force. It's not a gentle separation; it’s a forceful, brutal action. “[he had] nothing in his hand…” - This suggests that Saul was completely helpless and without anything to defend himself. He wasn’t fighting or wielding any weapons. The Shocking Part – The Silence: "...but he told not his father or his mother what he had done.” – This is the really bizarre part. After such a violent act, Saul doesn't tell anyone about it. He deliberately keeps this secret. It’s as if he’s trying to minimize the impact of his actions. What Does It Mean? This verse is often interpreted as a sign of profound repentance and a loss of control. It suggests: A Loss of Power: Saul was overwhelmed by God's power, leading to a breakdown in his ability to lead. A Turning Point: It marks a significant shift in Saul’s behavior – he's acknowledging a serious problem with his own actions and perhaps seeking help from God. A Moment of Vulnerability: It shows that even someone powerful can be vulnerable when faced with divine judgment. Important Note: The exact meaning of this verse is debated among theologians and scholars. It’s not always easy to fully understand! --- Do you want me to explain any specific aspect of the verse in more detail, like its historical context or possible interpretations? Or would you like to explore another Bible passage?