Definition: But he himself turned again from the quarries that [were] by Gilgal, and said, I have a secret errand unto thee, O king: who said, Keep silence. And all that stood by him went out from him.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 3:19. It's a really important and somewhat mysterious passage. Here’s what it means in plain English: The Basic Story: The King is Facing a Problem: The verse tells us that King Saul was facing a serious problem – he’d been involved in a quarry (a place where stones are worked) near Gilgal, Israel. He Made a Secret Decision: Instead of continuing with his plans, the king made a secret decision: He told his servants to keep silent. The Surrounders Left: Everyone who was standing around him – his guards, advisors, and even people he trusted – all suddenly left him. What it Means - A Layered Interpretation: This verse is rich with symbolism and suggests a few possible interpretations: 1. A Secret Mission: The most common understanding is that the king was involved in a clandestine mission. He was being watched or monitored, and his actions were being kept secret for a reason. It could be something dangerous or important he wasn't sharing with anyone. 2. Fear of Consequences: There’s a strong sense of fear. The king is choosing to remain silent because he knows that revealing what he's doing could lead to terrible consequences. It suggests a high level of risk involved. 3. Divine Intervention: Some theologians believe this verse highlights the role of God in protecting the righteous. The king’s decision to remain silent might be a sign that God is intervening to protect someone or something from harm. 4. A Test: It could even be interpreted as a test of the king's loyalty and faith. By choosing silence, he was demonstrating his commitment to a higher purpose. Important Note: The exact meaning of this verse has been debated for centuries. It’s a classic example of biblical language that can have multiple layers of interpretation. --- Do you want me to delve deeper into any aspect of this verse? For example, would you like to explore: The historical context surrounding the Gilgal quarry? Different theological interpretations of this passage?