Definition: And he said unto Jether his firstborn, Up, [and] slay them. But the youth drew not his sword: for he feared, because he [was] yet a youth.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 8:20. It’s a really interesting and slightly unsettling passage about a man named Jether and his response to a challenge. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: A Challenge is Made: A powerful enemy (we don’t know exactly who, but it’s a significant threat) challenges Jether, the firstborn of his family. A Threat is Issued: The enemy tells him to “Up, slay them.” This is a direct and violent command – essentially, “Kill them!” Fear Prevails: Jether doesn't immediately attack. Instead, he’s filled with fear. He understands that he’s still young and inexperienced. What’s Happening - A Layer of Complexity: This verse isn't just about fear; it’s a crucial part of a larger story about a king named Jehoiazal who was trying to maintain order in Israel. Here's what we can interpret: Jehoiazal's Goal: Jehoiazal wanted to keep the Israelites safe and secure, especially because he was a powerful king. He believed that having strong leaders like him would protect them from harm. The Young Man’s Role: The young man, who is described as “youth,” represents potential. It symbolizes the future of Israel – the next generation. Jehoiazal wasn't just concerned with protecting his own family; he was worried about the safety and stability of the entire nation. Fear as a Response: The young man’s fear isn't born out of weakness, but from recognizing the potential danger. He understands that he is still young and hasn't yet fully developed the strength to face this challenge. It suggests a sense of vulnerability. Overall Meaning - A Story of Waiting & Potential: This verse speaks to the idea that sometimes, we need to be cautious and prepared for the unknown. It’s about recognizing potential threats even when you aren’t immediately facing them. It's also about faith and trust – knowing that God is with us, even in difficult situations. Important Note: This verse is a bit mysterious and open to interpretation. It doesn’t give us a complete picture of what happened next. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further? Connect it to other Bible stories or themes? Discuss the possible historical context (without going into excessive detail)?