Definition: And the old man said, Peace [be] with thee; howsoever [let] all thy wants [lie] upon me; only lodge not in the street.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from Judges 19:20. It’s a really powerful and unsettling verse. Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Story: This verse comes from a story about a very old man who was being terrorized by a group of robbers. These robbers were trying to take everything the old man had – his possessions, his home, even his life. They weren't looking for money; they were seeking to control him and force him into submission. What’s Happening in the Verse: “And the old man said, Peace [be] with thee; howsoever [let] all thy wants [lie] upon me…” – The old man is essentially offering peace and comfort to the robbers. He's saying "Don't worry about anything; I'll take care of you." But he’s also subtly hinting that he is the one who holds all the power and control. He’s framing himself as the source of everything the robbers want. “only lodge not in the street.” – This is the key part. The old man is asking the robbers to not stay in the city, to not linger or be present. He’s telling them to leave and go elsewhere. He's essentially saying, "Don't stay here; you need to move on." What it Means – A Deeper Understanding: This verse is a warning about: The Power of a Grievous Old Man: It highlights the dangers of someone who has lived a long life and holds significant power. Their presence can be overwhelming and controlling. Being Vulnerable to Manipulation: The old man’s offer of peace is a tactic – he's using it to manipulate the robbers into staying away. The Importance of Staying Strong: It emphasizes that we should resist being controlled or taken advantage of by someone who has power over us, especially an older person. Overall Significance: This verse isn’t just about an old man being difficult. It’s a reminder to be vigilant against those who might seek to control others and to stay strong in your own life and independence. It's a call for humility and resisting manipulation. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Go into more detail about the context of this story? Discuss the themes of this passage (like power, vulnerability, or resilience)?