Definition: And the people came to the house of God, and abode there till even before God, and lifted up their voices, and wept sore;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Judges 21:2. It’s a really powerful and significant verse that speaks about a dramatic event in ancient Israel. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Story: This verse tells us about a group of people who were trespassing on God’s property – specifically, a place where He had established a temple. They weren’t just being disrespectful; they were actively weeping and trying to reach Him. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Judges 21:2” : This tells us where this happened – in the house of God. The "house of God" is a symbolic place, representing God’s presence and holiness. It was a special, sacred area where God lived and acted. “And the people came to the house of God…” - This refers to a group of people who were trespassing or disrespecting this holy space. “…and abode there till even before God…” – This is the crucial part. They weren't just near the place; they stayed there , essentially occupying it. It was a long, prolonged stay. “And lifted up their voices, and wept sore.” - This is where the intensity of the event comes in. They were wailing – expressing deep sorrow and distress. The word "sore" suggests an overwhelming feeling of pain and hopelessness. They were crying out to God with a great deal of anguish. Overall Meaning & Significance: This verse paints a picture of profound disrespect and a desperate plea for forgiveness. It highlights: Serious Sin: The people were clearly guilty of violating the sacred space of God. Divine Wrath: Their actions – trespassing and weeping – demonstrated a significant degree of anger and displeasure from God. Seeking Forgiveness: Their tears weren't just expressions of sadness; they were a desperate attempt to be reconciled with God. They were seeking His forgiveness for their wrongdoing. Why is this important? This story is often seen as a foreshadowing of the larger events in the Old Testament, particularly the story of the Flood. It shows that even after significant sin, there's a need for repentance and seeking God’s mercy. It’s a reminder that God is always willing to listen to those who humbly turn to Him. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some historical context about the story? Discuss the significance of this passage within the larger narrative of the Old Testament?

Definition: Therefore they commanded the children of Benjamin, saying, Go and lie in wait in the vineyards;

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Judges 21:20. It’s a really important part of understanding how things went wrong in a specific situation. Here's what it means, explained simply: “Judges 21:20 Therefore they commanded the children of Benjamin…” – This tells us that a group of people – likely soldiers or followers of a powerful leader – were instructed to wait in vineyards. They weren’t supposed to do anything else. “…saying, Go and lie in wait in the vineyards.” – This is the key part. They were told to stay and quietly watch for something bad to happen. “Lie in wait” means to be hidden and prepared to react if something bad occurs. What’s the context? This verse comes from a time when a leader, called Saul, was facing serious trouble. He had been accused of being a liar and a deceiver (as described in Judges 18). The command to lie in wait is essentially a way for the people to watch for Saul’s enemies – those who were plotting against him. It's a tactical measure to protect themselves. So, what does this verse tell us about the situation? It suggests that Saul was being deliberately manipulated and watched over by his enemies. The soldiers were essentially positioned to be ready to act if Saul’s plans went wrong. In short, it's a warning about being cautious and prepared for potential danger. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about the story of Judges 21? Or do you have any other questions about this passage?

Definition: And see, and, behold, if the daughters of Shiloh come out to dance in dances, then come ye out of the vineyards, and catch you every man his wife of the daughters of Shiloh, and go to the land of Benjamin.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 21:21. It’s a pretty serious and dramatic statement about a conflict. Here's a simplified explanation: What it means in plain English: “And see, and, behold, if the daughters of Shiloh come out to dance in dances, then come ye out of the vineyards, and catch you every man his wife of the daughters of Shiloh, and go to the land of Benjamin.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And see…” : This is a warning. It's emphasizing something important. “and, behold…” : This adds more emphasis and suggests a significant event is about to happen. "Behold" means "see" in Hebrew, so it’s a dramatic announcement. “…if the daughters of Shiloh come out to dance in dances…” : This describes a specific action – the daughters of Shiloh, a group known for their beautiful and lively dancing, are actively participating in a celebration. It's not just casually happening; they’re dancing . “then come ye out of the vineyards...” : This means they’re being called upon to leave the vineyards – which were probably places of agriculture and gathering. It suggests a forced departure, potentially due to a threat or conflict. "...and catch you every man his wife of the daughters of Shiloh..." : This is the core of the verse. It's saying that everyone who is a woman (and therefore a daughter) of Shiloh will be seized and taken as a wife. The word "catch" implies a swift and forceful action. "...and go to the land of Benjamin." : This directs them to travel to a specific area – Benjamin – which was a region in Israel. Overall Interpretation & Context: This verse is part of a larger story within the Old Testament, particularly concerning the aftermath of a significant conflict involving the tribes of Shiloh and Benjamin. It’s essentially a warning about a potential uprising or rebellion led by those daughters of Shiloh. The action – seizing their wives – is intended to disrupt their activities and potentially lead to a massive loss of life and resources. Important Note: The exact context of this verse is debated among biblical scholars, but it's generally understood as a dramatic announcement of a severe consequence for those who are part of the Shiloh group. It’s a powerful message about potential danger and the importance of vigilance. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Connect this verse to other stories or events in the Bible? Provide a summary of its significance in the larger narrative?

Definition: And it shall be, when their fathers or their brethren come unto us to complain, that we will say unto them, Be favourable unto them for our sakes: because we reserved not to each man his wife in the war: for ye did not give unto them at this time, [that] ye should be guilty.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 21:22. It’s a bit complex, but we can understand it as a warning and a call to action. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about leadership responsibility and protecting those under their care – specifically, the Israelites during a time of conflict. It’s saying that leaders need to be kind and helpful to those who are struggling or complaining. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Judges 21:22” : This refers to a specific event in Judges 21, which describes a situation where the Israelites were battling with their enemies. “And it shall be…” : This is a prophecy – a prediction of what will happen. “…when their fathers or their brethren come unto us to complain…” : This means that if someone (likely a leader or a member of the leadership) comes to us (the people of Israel) and complains about something, we are obligated to respond in a way that’s favorable to them. It's like offering help or understanding. “…that we will say unto them, Be favourable unto them for our sakes:” : We need to treat them well – offer them support, understanding, and perhaps even assistance. We shouldn’t be harsh or unkind to them. “because we reserved not to each man his wife in the war: for ye did not give unto them at this time, [that] ye should be guilty.” : This is the core of the warning. The Israelites were fighting a war. The key point here is that they didn't provide sufficient help or protection to those who were complaining. The speaker (likely a leader) is saying: “You didn’t give them what they needed – like a wife or support – at this time, and you are guilty of not protecting them.” In simpler terms: The verse is telling us that leaders have a responsibility to be kind and supportive to those who are struggling. If someone complains to us , we need to respond in a way that’s helpful and doesn't cause them harm. It’s about showing compassion and protecting those under our care, especially during times of hardship. Why is this important? This verse highlights the importance of leadership. It speaks to the idea that leaders should be thoughtful and empathetic. It shows a sense of responsibility towards others – even when they are causing trouble. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part in more detail? Give an example of how this verse might apply today?

Definition: And the children of Benjamin did so, and took [them] wives, according to their number, of them that danced, whom they caught: and they went and returned unto their inheritance, and repaired the cities, and dwelt in them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 21:23. It’s a really important passage about how things unfolded after a big conflict. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: A Conflict: The verse comes after a significant battle between the Israelites and a group of rebellious people called the "sons of Benjamin." They Took Them as Wives: These rebellious people, led by a man named “Dancer,” took the wives of the Israelites’ children. Think of it like this: they forced them into marriage. They Returned to Their Land: They then returned to their ancestral homeland (their inheritance) and started rebuilding and settling there. Let's unpack it further: “And the children of Benjamin did so…” : This refers back to the descendants of Benjamin, a prominent tribe in Israel’s history. “…and took [them] wives…” : This is the core of the story – they married the Israelites' daughters and granddaughters. “…of them that danced…” : This is a crucial detail. “Danced” likely refers to a specific group of people who were involved in a ritualistic dance, possibly a celebration or display of power. It highlights their rebellious behavior. “…whom they caught:” : They searched and found these individuals. It wasn’t a gentle process; they were actively pursuing them. "...and they went and returned unto their inheritance, and repaired the cities, and dwelt in them.” : This is where it gets really significant. They didn't just leave – they rebuilt their homes and settlements. They started establishing new communities and cities. Overall Meaning: This verse describes a period of intense conflict and oppression. The rebellious group, led by the "Dancer," deliberately targeted and married the Israelites' daughters. As a consequence, they rebuilt their lands and created new communities, demonstrating resilience and a desire to reclaim what was rightfully theirs. Important Note: This story is often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of rebellion and the importance of honoring God’s laws. It's a reminder that disobedience can have serious consequences. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Discuss what this story might symbolize (e.g., themes of leadership, justice, or redemption)?

Definition: And the children of Israel departed thence at that time, every man to his tribe and to his family, and they went out from thence every man to his inheritance.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Judges 21:24. It’s a pretty important part of understanding what happened after the death of Gideon. Here's a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a significant shift in the Israelites’ movement and their future. They were leaving behind their homes, their tribes, and their families to go to their individual territories. Let's unpack it word by word: “Judges 21:24” : This tells us we're talking about a specific event in the Book of Judges. “And the children of Israel departed thence” : “Thusforth” or “thence” means "and they went on". "Departed" means they left. The word "thence" refers to that place where they left. “every man to his tribe and to his family” : This is the key part. It means each person – each Israelite – was leaving with their own group (their tribe) and their own family. They weren't going to a big, organized settlement; they were going individually . “and they went out from thence every man to his inheritance” : “Thence” is another word for "then" or "from." “Every man to his inheritance” means that each person was moving to their own land, home, or area of responsibility – their inheritance. What does this mean practically? Loss of Unity: This suggests a growing division within the Israelites after Gideon's victory. They were scattering and becoming more independent. Focus on Individual Responsibility: It highlights that now, each person had to take care of themselves and their family. A Shift in Focus: The verse sets the stage for the subsequent chapters – where we see the Israelites facing challenges and ultimately being led back together under a new leader, Samuel. In essence, it’s a narrative about a dispersal and a shift in focus as the Israelites begin to settle into their own territories. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Judges 21? Provide more context about what was happening at the time?

Definition: In those days [there was] no king in Israel: every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 21:25. It’s a really important and somewhat unsettling passage about leadership and responsibility. Here's a simple explanation: The Core Idea: This verse says that in the days of ancient Israel, there was no king in their nation. And what happened is, everyone was doing whatever they thought was right – often without any rules or authority. It’s like a chaotic, self-serving leadership situation. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “In those days…” : This sets the historical context—it’s referring to a specific period in Israel’s history, likely during a time of conflict or instability. “…there was” : It means that this wasn't just a temporary situation; it was a long-standing pattern. “no king in Israel” : This is the key part. The verse explicitly states there was no king ruling over Israel. Before this, there was a system of leadership, but it was completely lacking a single, authoritative figure. “every man did that which was right in his own eyes” : This is where it gets interesting. It means that people were acting on their own judgment and desires – they were making decisions without regard for laws or established rules. They weren't following a moral code or being accountable to someone else. What does this mean practically? This verse suggests a period of great instability, perhaps with frequent conflicts and disputes because there was no one to guide them. It’s a warning about the dangers of: Selfishness: Acting solely for personal benefit without considering the needs or well-being of others. Lack of Accountability: No one being held responsible for their actions. Chaos and Disorder: A society where decisions are made randomly and without principles. Why is this a significant verse? It’s often seen as a foreshadowing of the chaos that would follow Israel's exile in the Book of Exile (the period after they left the land). It highlights the need for wise, ethical leadership to maintain order and stability. It also speaks to the importance of God’s guidance and establishing clear rules for behavior. In short: The verse describes a time where people were making decisions independently without any established authority or moral compass, leading to conflict and instability. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you more context about the history of this period in Israel's history?