Definition: And they called the name of the city Dan, after the name of Dan their father, who was born unto Israel: howbeit the name of the city [was] Laish at the first.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 18:29. It’s a really interesting and somewhat mysterious passage that's been debated for centuries! Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: This verse describes a very dramatic event – a massive battle between God and the giants who had overrun Israel. It’s essentially a story of divine judgment and a shift in power. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And they called the name of the city Dan…” - This refers to the city of Dan, located in northern Israel. It was a significant place for the Israelites at the time. “…after the name of Dan their father, who was born unto Israel:” – This is the crucial part. The city’s name was changed to “Dan,” and this change was because of a father (a man named Dan) who was born to Israel. It's saying that Dan is connected to the lineage of Israel, which is important for understanding why God chose to punish them. “howbeit the name of the city [was] Laish at the first.” – This is where it gets a little tricky and opens up different interpretations. “Laish” is a Hebrew word that means "to be a place of worship" or "a place of honor." It suggests that the initial naming of Dan was not a proper, sacred name. So, what does this mean? This verse suggests a few possibilities, and it’s been interpreted in various ways: A Symbolic Shift: The verse might be telling us that God wasn't punishing Dan itself, but rather the act of naming it. It was a symbolic change to signify a new era, a shift in power, or perhaps even a change in God’s plan for Israel. Divine Authority: The fact that the name changed suggests that God was establishing His authority and choosing a new path. Dan’s lineage wasn't enough; it needed to be connected to God himself. A Warning: It could also be interpreted as a warning to Israel to show respect to God and to remember their roots. Important Note: The exact meaning of “Laish” is still debated by scholars. It’s not a straightforward translation, and its significance lies in the idea that the naming was not a proper, sacred name. In short, this verse describes a significant event where God chose to change the name of a city – Dan – because it was connected to the lineage of Israel. It's a powerful moment of divine judgment and a shift in power. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible passage? Discuss a specific aspect of this verse in more detail (e.g., its historical context)?