Definition: And all the people likewise cut down every man his bough, and followed Abimelech, and put [them] to the hold, and set the hold on fire upon them; so that all the men of the tower of Shechem died also, about a thousand men and women.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Judges 9:49. It's a really powerful and dramatic story about a devastating loss. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Story: The Problem: The people of Shechem (a town) were living in a very unstable and dangerous situation. They had built a large, impressive tower – a “tower of Shechem.” This tower was incredibly tall and strong, but it was also vulnerable to collapse. A Response: They decided to take drastic action. They began systematically cutting down every single branch (a "bough") of the tower's structure. Following Instructions: They then followed a specific command – they put the fallen branches into a “hold” – essentially a jail or prison. The Consequences: They kept the hold on fire, and this caused a massive amount of destruction. About a thousand people—men and women—died as a result. What it Means in Simple Terms: Imagine a giant tree, and the tower is its main branch. This verse describes a complete demolition – everyone took down every single branch. They essentially destroyed the entire structure. Key Takeaways & Significance: A Terrible Loss: The story highlights how quickly things can fall apart when people become reckless or act without wisdom. It shows the destructive power of unchecked ambition and disregard for consequences. Justice and Punishment: The punishment wasn't just about the physical destruction; it was a demonstration of God’s justice, holding those accountable for their actions. The Importance of Wisdom & Planning: The story serves as a warning – it emphasizes that long-term stability comes from careful planning, wise decisions, and respecting boundaries. It's important to note: This is a very old story with a strong moral message. It’s not just about a simple fight; it’s a story about the dangers of unchecked pride and the need for humility. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this passage? Discuss the context of the story in the Bible?