Definition: And Abimelech chased him, and he fled before him, and many were overthrown [and] wounded, [even] unto the entering of the gate.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from Judges 9:40. It’s a pretty dramatic and intense passage about a man named “him” who was being relentlessly pursued. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Abimelech is the Target: Abimelech, a king of Israel, was being relentlessly chased by this person. He Fled: He desperately tried to escape the pursuer. Many Were Overthrown & Wounded: This isn’t just one person; it's a large group – many people – were seriously hurt or even killed as a result of the chase. It suggests a significant and violent conflict. What It Means Figuratively (and Potentially Literally): This verse is often interpreted as a metaphor for a period of intense, widespread suffering or chaos. It speaks to: A Period of Crisis: The "him" represents a time when something was really bad happening – perhaps a severe famine, war, or a deep spiritual problem. The Consequences of Wrongdoing: It suggests that the person being chased wasn't just random; they were causing immense pain and disruption. A Turning Point: It implies that this situation led to significant loss and devastation. Key Takeaway: The verse paints a picture of a brutal struggle, where someone was relentlessly pursued to the point of severe suffering for many people. Important Note: The exact meaning can be debated amongst scholars, but it's generally understood as a powerful image representing a time of great hardship and disruption. --- Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail? Explore what this verse might symbolize in a broader biblical story?