Definition: Then he called hastily unto the young man his armourbearer, and said unto him, Draw thy sword, and slay me, that men say not of me, A woman slew him. And his young man thrust him through, and he died.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly difficult and shocking passage from Judges 9:54. It's a deeply disturbing story, and it’s important to understand the context before we go into the details. Here's what it means in simple terms: This verse describes a horrific act of violence – a woman stabbing a young man to death. It’s a moment of intense panic and betrayal, and it highlights a very serious situation within the story of the Judges. Let’s unpack it step-by-step: 1. “Then he called hastily unto the young man his armourbearer, and said unto him…” This is crucial. The narrator is not describing a heroic act. They are in utter shock and fear. They're calling upon someone – likely a trusted companion – to immediately take action. 2. “…and said unto him, Draw thy sword, and slay me, that men say not of me…” This is the core of the story. The narrator is begging the young man to kill them. They’re essentially pleading with him to take a life – to make it known they are dead. 3. “…and his young man thrust him through, and he died.” This is the brutal climax. The young man is stabbed. He dies. What's the significance of this story? It’s a turning point in the narrative: It marks a significant shift in the story. The Judges are overwhelmed by a terrible event, and they desperately seek someone to take action. It's a symbol of chaos and violence: The story illustrates how quickly things can spiral out of control when trust is broken and people become consumed by anger and desperation. It shows that even in the midst of a crisis, it’s possible for terrible things to happen. Important Context (it adds depth): The Judges are struggling: The story takes place during a period of intense conflict and turmoil in Israel. The Judges are dealing with a powerful enemy and are facing a desperate situation. It's a moment of profound despair: The narrator is experiencing intense fear, guilt, and shame. They recognize that their actions have led to such a horrific event. In short, this verse presents a heartbreaking scene where betrayal and violence erupt, fueled by panic and desperation. It’s a powerful illustration of the devastating consequences of evil and the importance of trust. --- Disclaimer: I've provided an explanation based on common interpretations of biblical texts. These texts are complex and often deal with challenging themes. If you need deeper understanding or interpretation, consulting with a religious scholar or biblical scholar would be beneficial. Would you like me to: Explain another verse from Judges 9? Discuss the possible symbolism behind this passage?