Definition: Then Jerubbaal, who [is] Gideon, and all the people that [were] with him, rose up early, and pitched beside the well of Harod: so that the host of the Midianites were on the north side of them, by the hill of Moreh, in the valley.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 7:1. It’s a really interesting piece of history and it speaks to a significant shift in power and strategy. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Gideon and the People: The verse describes Gideon, a man who was a military leader, rallying a large group of people – including many Israelites – to fight against an enemy force. Setting the Stage: They decided to set up camp near a well called Harod, located in a specific area (the “valley”). The Enemy's Presence: The crucial part is that the enemy forces were positioned on the north side of the camp , and by the "hill of Moreh" (which we don’t know exactly what that means). This meant they were actively watching and ready to attack. Putting it Together - What's the Big Picture? This verse tells us that Gideon and his followers were strategically positioned to defend against a potential threat . The enemy was deliberately placing themselves in a vulnerable position, making it easier for them to launch an assault. It’s like setting up defenses before an attack! Important Context (Why this is significant): Gideon's Rise: This verse shows that Gideon had become a powerful leader and was actively trying to defend Israel from the Midianites – a group of nomadic tribes who were challenging their kingdom. The Battle Begins: It’s a crucial moment where the Israelites, under Gideon's leadership, began to prepare for a potential battle against the enemy. In short, this verse describes a strategic move by Gideon to protect his people and prepare for a possible conflict. --- Do you want me to explain any of these points in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain what “Moreh” might signify? Discuss the significance of this event within the larger story of the Old Testament?

Definition: But if thou fear to go down, go thou with Phurah thy servant down to the host:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 7:10. It's a really interesting and somewhat mysterious passage that speaks about a situation of leadership and trust. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that if someone is afraid to go down to the king’s palace (the “host”), then they should instead send a servant down to do the same thing. It's essentially a way of prioritizing trust and responsibility, even when it feels uncomfortable. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “But if thou fear…” : This is a crucial part. It acknowledges that the person being addressed does have a reason to be afraid – they’re likely in a position of authority or responsibility and feel vulnerable. “…go thou with Phurah thy servant down to the host:” This is where it gets a little more symbolic. "Phurah" means to trust, to rely on, or to be obedient. “Thy servant” refers to someone who’s trusted to perform a task. So, this phrase means: “Go with trust and obedience down to the king's palace.” What does it mean practically? It suggests that when someone is facing a difficult situation – perhaps a crisis, or a threat – they should not try to handle it alone. Instead, they should delegate responsibility to someone who has faith and confidence in their ability to act on the king's orders. It’s about trusting in the person who knows best and is trusted to take action. Context & Significance: This verse appears after a period of turmoil and instability, and it highlights: The Importance of Trust: The text emphasizes that trust is vital for leadership, especially when things are chaotic. Delegation of Authority: It’s a way of acknowledging the king's authority and instructing someone to act as his representative. In short, this verse encourages humility, reliance on trusted individuals, and prioritizing responsibility over personal fear. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse in more detail? Give you a deeper historical context for this passage?

Definition: And thou shalt hear what they say; and afterward shall thine hands be strengthened to go down unto the host. Then went he down with Phurah his servant unto the outside of the armed men that [were] in the host.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Judges 7:11. It’s a really important and slightly unsettling passage about a leader being forced to do something incredibly difficult. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Core of the Verse: “And thou shalt hear what they say; and afterward shall thine hands be strengthened to go down unto the host.” What's Happening? This verse describes a situation where a leader – let’s call him Phurah – is being ordered to do something incredibly difficult and potentially dangerous. It suggests he’s being forced to confront and deal with a group of people who are speaking about something unpleasant or harmful. Let's unpack the parts: “And thou shalt hear what they say…” : This means that the leader is being told to listen carefully to what these people are saying. It implies there’s information he needs to understand. “…and afterward shall thine hands be strengthened to go down unto the host.” : This is the key part. "The host" refers to a group of soldiers or warriors, likely in a military situation. “Go down unto” means to descend – to go down towards them. The phrase “thine hands be strengthened” suggests that this action is going to be physically demanding and require effort. What's the implication? This verse paints a picture of a difficult and possibly perilous situation. It’s suggesting: A Threat: There's a problem – something bad is happening, or is about to happen. Pressure & Forced Action: The leader has been given a command that requires him to confront this threat directly. He’s being forced into a difficult task. Potential Danger: The phrase "thine hands be strengthened" implies that the task itself will be challenging and could have consequences if he fails. Context is Important (but we don't need to know everything ): Judges 7:11 is part of a larger story in the book of Judges, which focuses on a time when Israel was plagued by violence and rebellion. This verse sets the stage for further events, hinting at a crisis that needs to be addressed. In short: This verse describes a leader being ordered to confront a troubling group of people through a difficult task – possibly involving listening to their words and then physically going into a dangerous situation. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the Bible passage? Discuss the significance of this verse in the context of the book of Judges? Give you some background on the story of the Judges?

Definition: And the Midianites and the Amalekites and all the children of the east lay along in the valley like grasshoppers for multitude; and their camels [were] without number, as the sand by the sea side for multitude.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this Bible verse together. It’s a really interesting and somewhat poetic description of a period in ancient Israel’s history. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse describes a time when a large group of people – the Midianites and Amalekites – were living in a particularly lush and abundant valley. Here's a more detailed explanation: "Judges 7:12 And the Midianites and the Amalekites and all the children of the east lay along in the valley like grasshoppers..." This sets the scene. The verse describes a vast, fertile area – a valley – that was incredibly full of life and resources. Think of it as a giant green field or pasture. "...for multitude; and their camels [were] without number..." This is the key part. "Multitude" means many . And "their camels were without number" means they were so numerous that there was simply too much of them to count! It's like a huge, overflowing field of animals. "...as the sand by the sea side for multitude." This is where it gets really symbolic. The comparison to the sand on a beach is powerful. The "sea side" represents the vastness and abundance of this valley. It’s so full that it stretches out like a huge, endless expanse – a place overflowing with life and resources. So, putting it all together: This verse paints a picture of a time when a large group of people (the Midianites and Amalekites) were living in an incredibly fertile and abundant valley. They were so numerous that they filled the entire space, creating a scene almost like a boundless field of animals. What does this verse tell us? God’s Sovereignty: It shows God's control over creation. He creates vast landscapes with abundance, and He chooses to allow these people to be there. Divine Providence: It suggests that God has a plan for things, even when they seem chaotic or overwhelming. He allows this situation to exist in order to fulfill His purposes. Important Note: This is a poetic passage from the Old Testament. It’s not meant to be taken literally – it's symbolic language used to convey a deeper truth about God’s plan and power. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Connect this verse to a specific story or event in the Bible?

Definition: And when Gideon was come, behold, [there was] a man that told a dream unto his fellow, and said, Behold, I dreamed a dream, and, lo, a cake of barley bread tumbled into the host of Midian, and came unto a tent, and smote it that it fell, and overturned it, that the tent lay along.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this biblical passage. It's a really interesting story about faith and testing! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Gideon was a leader of Israel. He had a dream – a dream where he saw a man falling into a pile of barley bread, which then tumbled over a tent. This dream was shared with his people. What the Dream Said: The dream told Gideon that someone had brought a large amount of barley bread (a symbol of abundance and favor) into Midian – a land to the east of Israel. This person then fell into a tent, causing it to be overturned and damaged. The Significance - It's About Faith & Testing: Gideon’s Response: Gideon listened to this dream and realized that something was wrong with his people. He knew he needed to investigate further. Testing His Belief: This is a key point – it wasn't enough for him to just hear the dream. He had to act on it. He asked his people to tell him what they thought about this dream. This shows he was willing to trust in something beyond just his own judgment. Overall Meaning - It’s a Test of Faith: The entire story is a parable – a story with a moral or lesson. It's essentially a test of faith. Gideon wasn't necessarily right about the dream itself, but he acted on it and asked for further investigation. The passage suggests that God tests people to see who truly believes and trusts in Him. In short: Gideon’s dream was a sign that something was amiss with his nation, and he took the initiative to investigate and prove himself worthy. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this story in more detail? Give you some historical context about the time Gideon was living? Talk about the significance of the dream itself (which is a debated topic among scholars)?

Definition: And his fellow answered and said, This [is] nothing else save the sword of Gideon the son of Joash, a man of Israel: [for] into his hand hath God delivered Midian, and all the host.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 7:14. It's a really important and somewhat surprising part of the story. Here’s what it means in plain language: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a situation where God is actively using a military force – specifically, a sword – to protect a particular area. It’s saying that Gideon, a man who was chosen by God to lead Israel, has been tricked or manipulated into allowing this military action to continue. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Judges 7:14” : This is the verse itself, giving us the context. “And his fellow answered and said…” : It’s talking about people who were around Gideon at the time. “…This [is] nothing else save the sword of Gideon the son of Joash…” : This is the key part. It’s saying that Gideon has been given this military force by God. The name “Gideon” is being used to describe this powerful weapon. “The son of Joash” refers to a specific, older version or leader of Gideon. “[for] into his hand hath God delivered Midian…” : This is where it gets really significant. “Midian” was a region in the Levant (modern-day Israel and Lebanon). The word "delivered" means protected . God has given this sword to Gideon, protecting the land of Midian from enemies. "...and all the host." : This emphasizes that this isn’t just about one specific battle or conflict. It's a sustained effort to keep the region safe. In simpler terms: Gideon was tricked by someone (likely a deceitful leader) who allowed God to use a powerful military force to protect a valuable area, and that force is continuing to be used. What’s the big takeaway? It highlights a few things: God’s Sovereignty: It shows that God is actively involved in protecting His people and their lands. Divine Intervention: It suggests that God uses His power to protect, even when it seems like someone is being manipulated or deceived. Trusting in God: It can be a reminder to trust in God's plan, even when things seem difficult or uncertain. Important Note: This verse doesn’t necessarily mean Gideon was evil . It simply means he made a mistake and allowed himself to be used by others. It’s about the use of the sword, not the intent behind it. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss its significance in a particular historical context? Provide a related story or example?

Definition: And it was [so], when Gideon heard the telling of the dream, and the interpretation thereof, that he worshipped, and returned into the host of Israel, and said, Arise; for the LORD hath delivered into your hand the host of Midian.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 7:15. It’s a really significant moment in the story of Gideon and God’s protection. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Gideon is Facing a Problem: Gideon was a young man who was trying to defend Israel from the enemy (the Philistines). He was struggling with doubt and fear, and his army wasn't doing well. He Receives a Dream: Suddenly, God showed Gideon a dream – a vision of a massive army coming from Midian (a region in the west). This army was incredibly strong and powerful. Gideon Understands the Meaning: Gideon starts to understand that this isn’t just a random dream. It's a message of protection . He realizes God is actively intervening to save Israel. God Sends Him to Take Action: God tells Gideon, "Arise; for the LORD hath delivered into your hand the host of Midian." This means God has given Gideon a crucial task – he needs to lead an army and fight against the enemy. What's Happening in the Verse? “And it was [so]…”: This is a way of saying “and it happened that…” It emphasizes the result of this dream - Gideon’s shift in understanding. “…when Gideon heard…”: Gideon listened to the dream. “…the telling of the dream, and the interpretation thereof…”: This refers to the explanation of the dream – a detailed description of the army coming from Midian. “…that he worshipped…”: Gideon started to worship God, recognizing that this was a divine intervention. He wasn’t just accepting it; he was affirming it. “…and returned into the host of Israel…”: Gideon left his army and returned to serving the people of Israel. “And said, Arise; for the LORD hath delivered into your hand the host of Midian.”: This is the core message: “Arise!” Gideon says, "Let's go!" He understands that God has given him the power and strength to defeat the enemy. He’s recognizing that God is actively working to protect Israel. In a Nutshell: Gideon was changed from a doubtful man to someone who fully believes in God’s protection and takes action based on that belief. Why is this important? This verse shows that faith and obedience can be powerful. It highlights that God doesn't just allow things to happen; He actively works for good. It also emphasizes the importance of recognizing God’s power in our lives and trusting His plan, even when we are facing challenges. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Connect it to a specific story or event from biblical history?

Definition: And he divided the three hundred men [into] three companies, and he put a trumpet in every man’s hand, with empty pitchers, and lamps within the pitchers.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Judges 7:16. It’s a really interesting description of how God dealt with a rebellion against him. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: A Rebellion: The verse describes a group of people who were rebelling against God, and they were causing trouble. They were essentially fighting against his authority. Dividing into Groups: God decided to divide these rebels into three distinct groups. Think of it like giving them different roles or responsibilities. Trumpets in Hands: Each rebel group received a trumpet (a signal) in their hands. This was crucial – they were being given a signal to do something specific. Empty Pitchers & Lamps: This is the really important part. Each rebel group received: Empty Pitchers: These were like containers for water or some other resource. It suggests they were lacking supplies and resources. Lamps within the Pitchers: This adds a layer of symbolism – these lamps represented hope, guidance, or something that could be used to help them. Putting it Together - The Message God was essentially telling these rebels: “You are being divided into three groups. You each have a specific task and you will be responsible for it. You’re given an empty container and a lamp – this means you need to do something.” Possible Interpretations (This is where it gets deeper, but let's keep it simple): Punishment & Control: The verse suggests that God was punishing these rebels with a division of labor. He wasn’t just letting them run wild; he was intentionally setting them up for a specific task to demonstrate his authority and control. A Test of Obedience: It could be seen as a test of their obedience to God's commands. They were being challenged to show that they would follow his instructions, even in a difficult situation. Important Note: This passage is part of a larger story about God’s judgment and the consequences of disobedience. It highlights God's power and his willingness to deal with those who defy him. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further in more detail? Provide a different interpretation of the verse?

Definition: And he said unto them, Look on me, and do likewise: and, behold, when I come to the outside of the camp, it shall be [that], as I do, so shall ye do.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 7:17. It's a really important message about responsibility and consequences. Here's a simplified explanation: What it means in plain English: “He said to them, ‘Look at me, and do the same to me.’ And, behold, when I come to the edge of the camp, that’s how you must do it too.” Let’s unpack it layer by layer: "He said to them..." : This tells us this is a direct instruction from a leader. "...and, behold..." : This is a dramatic pause – it's like a signpost that something significant is about to happen. “Behold” suggests a revealing or important revelation. "...when I come to the outside of the camp..." : This refers to a specific point within the camp – perhaps the edge where the leader is positioned. It’s a boundary, a limit. "...that's how you must do it too." : This is the crucial part. The leader isn't just telling them what to do; they're emphasizing that everyone should follow suit. What does this mean in terms of responsibility and consequence? This verse speaks to a situation where someone – likely a leader or authority figure – is acting selfishly, perhaps causing trouble or disrupting the peace. Here’s what it suggests: Accountability: The leader is holding everyone accountable for their actions. Responsibility: They're placing the responsibility of maintaining order and safety on everyone . Consequences: If they don't follow suit, there will be consequences – essentially, a negative outcome for those who disobey. It’s about mirroring the leader's behavior. In essence, it’s a warning to everyone to be vigilant, to act responsibly, and to cooperate with each other. It highlights the importance of unity and that actions have repercussions. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to another biblical passage? Discuss its significance within a particular historical context (like the time period)?

Definition: When I blow with a trumpet, I and all that [are] with me, then blow ye the trumpets also on every side of all the camp, and say, [The sword] of the LORD, and of Gideon.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 7:18. It's a really important and dramatic passage about God’s judgment and action. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse says: “When God decides to punish those who are disobeying Him, He will call everyone involved – including all the soldiers and people nearby – to shout out a declaration of praise to Him.” Let's unpack that a little further: "When I blow with a trumpet..." - This is a signal. It’s like a loud, clear call to action. "...I and all that [are] with me..." – This refers to the entire group of people God has chosen to respond to his judgment. It's not just one person; it’s everyone . "...then blow ye the trumpets also on every side of all the camp..." - This is a very strong command! It means everyone – every single person – needs to loudly proclaim God’s name. “Blow” here represents a loud, resounding shout or announcement. “On every side of all the camp” emphasizes that this isn't just a small group; it’s a massive outpouring of praise. "...and say, [The sword] of the LORD, and of Gideon." - This is the key part. God is using The Sword of the Lord – which is a symbolic representation of his power – to proclaim the name of Gideon (a man who was asked to lead an army). He’s saying, “This is God's way! This is his judgment!” What's it about? Historically and in the Bible, this verse is interpreted as a sign that God is seriously displeased with those who are resisting him. It suggests a time when God will use a powerful, dramatic display – a loud proclamation – to show that he’s not pleased with their defiance. It's a reminder that God isn't just interested in the outcome; He wants to make his presence known and to show that he is in control. Important Note: It’s often interpreted as a foreshadowing of the larger story of Gideon’s failure, and then God’s subsequent intervention to ultimately save Israel from the threat of the enemy. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like to know: What does “The Sword of the Lord” represent? Why was this message delivered in a specific way?