Definition: And there came an angel of the LORD, and sat under an oak which [was] in Ophrah, that [pertained] unto Joash the Abiezrite: and his son Gideon threshed wheat by the winepress, to hide [it] from the Midianites.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 6:11. It’s a really significant passage about a battle and God’s intervention. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Story: The Conflict: The verse describes a massive conflict between the Israelites (and their allies) and the Abiezrite people, who were allied with the Midianites – a group of nomadic tribes in the region. This was a major battle for control of territory. The Angel of the LORD: A powerful angel of God appears to help the Israelites. This angel is incredibly significant because it's not just a messenger; he’s actively involved in the fight. Under an Oak Near Ophrah: The angel sits under a large oak tree (called “Ophrah” – which means "the prosperous" in Hebrew) located near the coast of modern-day Israel. This is a very important location because it's connected to the future victory for the Israelites. Sat Beneath Gideon: Gideon, a young man who was leading the Israelites, is shown sitting under this oak tree. Threshing Wheat by Winepress: Gideon then does something remarkable: he uses a wine press (a machine used for pressing grapes) to harvest wheat. He secretly does this while the Midianites are attacking and harassing him. This is a crucial detail – it’s a strategic maneuver that demonstrates his bravery and faith. To Hide It from the Midianites: The most important part: Gideon successfully hides the wheat so that it won't be seen by the Midianites who were invading and attacking him. What Does This Verse Mean? This verse is a key part of God’s plan to deliver Israel from Abiezrite oppression. It shows: God’s Intervention: The angel of the LORD actively participates in the battle, demonstrating God's power and involvement. Divine Protection: It highlights that God is protecting His people and defending them against their enemies. A Strategic Victory: Gideon's actions – hiding the wheat – are a deliberate strategy to give the Israelites an advantage in the long run. It’s a sign of faith and obedience, which ultimately leads to victory. In short, this verse describes a pivotal moment where God actively helps Israel win a crucial battle against their enemies through a strategic act of Gideon. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of the story in more detail? Connect this passage to other biblical stories or themes?