Definition: And when he was come into his house, he took a knife, and laid hold on his concubine, and divided her, [together] with her bones, into twelve pieces, and sent her into all the coasts of Israel.
Explanation: Okay, letโs break down this verse from Judges 19:29. It's a really disturbing passage about violence and revenge. Hereโs a simplified explanation: The Basic Story: A Wicked King: This verse describes a king named โHezekiahโ who was incredibly cruel and violent. He had a very bad reputation. Murdering His Wife: Hezekiah's wife, who was a beautiful woman, was brutally murdered. She was killed by him in a fit of rage. A Revenge Plan: As punishment for his wickedness, hezekiah decided to kill his own concubine (a woman he treated poorly and perhaps even abused). The Killing Process: Hezekiah then divided her into twelve pieces and sent her out across all the coasts of Israel โ meaning she was exiled and forced to wander. Itโs a very brutal and horrifying act of revenge. What it Means in Simple Terms: This verse describes a king who committed extreme violence and murder against his wife. He used this violence as a way to punish himself and, arguably, to punish those around him. It's a stark example of how anger and hatred can lead to terrible acts. Important Context (Why itโs important): Judgment: This story is presented as a judgment โ a punishment for Hezekiah's actions. Itโs telling us that even powerful rulers can be corrupted by evil. The Role of God: The Bible often shows that God is watching and intervening, especially when there seems like no justice or fairness is being applied. Important Note: This story is incredibly disturbing because it details a horrific act of violence. It's important to remember this isnโt about praising evil; it's about illustrating the consequences of wickedness and the importance of seeking justice and righteousness. --- Would you like me to: Explain another part of the passage? Discuss the context of this story within the larger narrative of the Old Testament? Talk about the themes of violence or revenge that this verse explores?