Definition: And Caleb said, He that smiteth Kirjathsepher, and taketh it, to him will I give Achsah my daughter to wife.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Judges 1:12. It's a really interesting and somewhat surprising story about a man named Caleb! Here’s the explanation in simple terms: The Basic Story: Caleb was facing trouble: Caleb was a leader in Israel who was experiencing significant problems – he was being targeted by enemies, and he was feeling increasingly anxious. He asked for help: He confided in his friend, Joshua, and asked him to do something incredibly risky: to go to the city of Kirjathsepher (which is now part of modern-day Israel) and take a specific object – a piece of land called Achsah – from it. He’s offering a bargain: Caleb was essentially offering his daughter, Achsah, as a wife to whoever takes this land. What does this mean? This verse is often misinterpreted as a sign that Caleb was secretly evil or plotting something sinister. However, the biblical text itself doesn't really say that. It’s more nuanced. Here’s what scholars believe it suggests: Caleb was prioritizing his family: Caleb was incredibly concerned about Achsah and her well-being. He wasn’t seeking to harm anyone; he was trying to protect her. He was acting as a strategic alliance: The verse is part of a larger pattern of Caleb's behavior. He often used unconventional tactics, including offering sacrifices and dealing with enemies in unexpected ways. This act – taking this land – wasn’t about personal gain; it was about securing a future for his daughter. It’s a symbolic gesture: The verse is more about a demonstration of Caleb's love and commitment to his family than it is a declaration of malicious intent. It shows he was willing to do anything, even risk his own safety, to protect what was most important to him. Important Context: The Story in Judges 1: This verse appears within the larger narrative of Judges 1. It’s part of a story about Caleb's leadership and the struggles he faced against the Philistines. Joshua's Role: Joshua, Caleb's friend, was responsible for carrying out this request. In short, this verse is a testament to Caleb's devotion to his daughter and his willingness to make difficult choices to protect her. --- Do you want me to explain any specific aspect of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Discuss the historical context surrounding this story? Explore the different interpretations of the verse?