Definition: And Israel set liers in wait round about Gibeah.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 20:29. It’s a really important and somewhat unsettling passage about betrayal and suspicion. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: “Liars in wait” : This refers to people who were deliberately trying to spread lies and deceit. They weren't just gossips; they were actively working to cause trouble and harm. “Around Gibeah” : Now, let’s understand what Gibeah is. It was a region in Israel, historically, that served as a boundary between the city of Jerusalem and the areas surrounding it. It was known for being a place of intense religious activity and where people lived very close to each other. Putting it All Together: So, Judges 20:29 says that Israelites were actively trying to spread lies within the community of people living near Gibeah. This suggests a deliberate effort to cause problems, potentially by undermining trust and creating conflict within the region. Why is this significant? This verse highlights a period of intense political instability and suspicion in Israel during the time of Judges. It points to a situation where people were actively trying to sow discord and potentially even harm each other because of lies and deception. It's a stark reminder that even within close-knit communities, betrayal can happen. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a sign of impending disaster or conflict. It’s not just about individual gossip; it speaks to a broader pattern of mistrust that could lead to violence. --- To help me explain this verse in even more detail and tailor it to your needs, could you tell me: What are you hoping to understand from this passage? (e.g., Are you curious about its historical context? Are you interested in understanding the message behind it? Are you looking for a deeper interpretation?) What is your current level of knowledge about biblical stories and history? (Are you completely new to the Bible, or do you have some existing familiarity?)