Definition: Then all the children of Israel, and all the people, went up, and came unto the house of God, and wept, and sat there before the LORD, and fasted that day until even, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the LORD.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 20:26. It’s a really important passage about how the Israelites reacted to a serious crisis. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Imagine Israel was facing a terrible problem – they were being harassed and oppressed by a powerful, angry tribe called the Amalekites. They were being tricked into a false alliance with the Amaleks, and they were suffering greatly. What Happened Next? They Went to God: The Israelites, who were already troubled and feeling lost, decided to go to God – the leader of Israel. They wanted to seek His help and protection. They Came to a Special Place: They went to a special place – the house of God – which is a symbolic representation of God’s presence and where He dwells. They Wept & Sat Down: This is key! They weren't just standing there . They were weeping – showing their sadness and pain. They also sat down, indicating deep sorrow and reflection. They Fasted: They took a long time to fast – meaning they stopped eating and drinking – as a sign of repentance and acknowledging their wrongdoings. They Offered Burnt Offerings & Peace Offerings: This is the most significant part. They presented gifts and sacrifices (burnt offerings and peace offerings) before God, showing that they were truly sorry for their actions. It was like giving a sincere apology or making amends. What’s the Point? This verse shows that when people are deeply troubled by sin and wrongdoing, acknowledging their mistakes and turning to God is crucial. It's about admitting guilt, expressing remorse, and seeking forgiveness. In short, it tells us that when we're facing a difficult situation, showing humility, repentance, and seeking God’s help is essential. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Tell you about the historical context of this passage? Discuss what this verse might mean in terms of Israel’s relationship with God?