Definition: And the liers in wait hasted, and rushed upon Gibeah; and the liers in wait drew [themselves] along, and smote all the city with the edge of the sword.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 20:37. It’s a really important and dramatic passage about how God responded to a group of people who were planning to attack Jerusalem. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: “Liars in wait” : This refers to a group of people – likely priests, officials, or even those who were secretly involved in the plot – who were actively planning to attack Jerusalem. They weren’t just passively waiting; they were actively scheming and preparing for war. “Hasted” : This means rushed and hurried. They were acting quickly and desperately. “Rushed upon Gibeah” : Gibeah was a specific area of Jerusalem, a walled neighborhood with a long history of protection and a strict set of rules about who could enter or leave it. So, they were rushing into this protected area, deliberately violating the boundaries. “Drew [themselves] along” : This is a crucial part. They weren’t just running into the city; they were following the path of the defenders – the soldiers and guards protecting Jerusalem – relentlessly. They moved along the lines of defense. “Smote all the city with the edge of the sword” : This is the terrifying part. They deliberately attacked Jerusalem, using the edge of the sword (a weapon used in warfare) to inflict maximum damage and destruction. They were intentionally causing chaos and widespread harm. What it means – a quick, brutal response: The verse describes God’s immediate and swift judgment on this group who was plotting violence against Jerusalem. It’s a clear message of divine retribution for their actions. It’s not just a passive warning; it’s a very direct and forceful punishment delivered by God. Overall Significance: This passage is often interpreted as a sign that God is deeply concerned about evil and injustice, and He will not tolerate those who deliberately threaten His people or his city. It highlights God's power to punish wickedness and protect His chosen ones. --- To help me explain it further, would you like me to: Explain the context of this verse in the larger story of Judges? Discuss what this verse might symbolize (e.g., evil succeeding)? Or do you have any specific questions about it that you'd like me to answer?