Definition: That the cruelty [done] to the threescore and ten sons of Jerubbaal might come, and their blood be laid upon Abimelech their brother, which slew them; and upon the men of Shechem, which aided him in the killing of his brethren.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 9:24. It's a really important passage about justice and revenge. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: Jerubbaal was a brutal man: The verse describes Jerubbaal as being incredibly cruel to a group of sons – around 30 and ten – of a man named Abimelech. This is the core of the problem. Abimelech’s Brother Was Killed: Abimelech, who was a strong and courageous man, killed his entire family – including the sons of Jerubbaal – in a brutal attack. What the Verse Says (in plain language): “That the cruelty [done] to the threescore and ten sons of Jerubbaal might come, and their blood be laid upon Abimelech their brother, which slew them; and upon the men of Shechem, which aided him in the killing of his brethren.” “That the cruelty [done]…” This means that this violence – the brutal treatment – was planned . It wasn’t just a random act of anger. “…might come” : It's suggesting that this violence was going to happen, and it was inevitable. "...and their blood be laid upon Abimelech their brother..." This is the key part. The verse says that Abimelech’s brother will be punished . The “blood” refers to the actual deaths of the sons of Jerubbaal. "...which slew them" : This emphasizes that Abimelech's family was murdered. "...and upon the men of Shechem, which aided him in the killing of his brethren." This is a crucial part that sets it up for a larger story. Shechem is a group of people who helped Abimelech kill his family. The verse says that those involved in this act – the people of Shechem – also will be punished. What's the Message? This verse is about justice and accountability. It’s a warning against violence, and it highlights the idea that even when someone causes immense harm, they are responsible for their actions and will face consequences. It suggests a cycle of violence – one act of cruelty leads to further suffering. Important Context (Briefly): This verse is part of a larger story in the Old Testament about a period called the “Age of Wrath” or “Age of Rebellion.” It's a time when people were behaving terribly and causing chaos. The Bible uses this story to show that God will ultimately punish evil and bring about justice, even after the worst acts are committed. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these points in more detail? Give you a quick summary of what happened in the story? Discuss the significance of this verse within the larger context of the Old Testament?