Definition: And when he was departed thence, he went into their synagogue:
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this famous verse from Matthew 12:9: “And when he was departing thence, he went into their synagogue:” Basically, it means: Jesus is leaving the group of people who were listening to him – essentially, they’re dispersing. But as he moves away, he goes into a synagogue (a Jewish place of worship). Let's unpack that a little further: “Depart thence”: This is key! It means “He left from there.” Jesus was leaving the group of people who were with him. “Went into…”: He moved into the synagogue. This suggests he’s seeking to speak to them, perhaps to teach or comfort them. “Synagogue” : This is a very important detail. Synagogues are ancient Jewish places where people gather for prayer and worship. It's a significant place in Jewish tradition. What does this verse tell us about Jesus? It’s often interpreted as a sign that Jesus was: Seeking to connect with his followers: He wasn’t just leaving; he was going to them, showing they were important to him. Preparing for a significant teaching or announcement: The synagogue was a place where the Jewish people gathered to hear about God's word – and Jesus was likely about to share something important. It’s a moment of transition and anticipation! Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail, or perhaps delve into its context within the larger story of Matthew?