Definition: So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused [them] to understand the reading.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Nehemiah 8:8. It's a really important part of understanding how the Bible teaches us about learning and applying its words. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it means: “They weren’t just passively reading the book; they were actively understanding what was being written.” Here’s a more detailed explanation: “So they read in the book…” – This refers to the Book of Nehemiah, which is a story about rebuilding a city in Jerusalem after it had been captured by enemies. “…in the law of God distinctly…” - "Law of God" means God's rules and teachings. "Distinctly" means they were reading specifically with a clear understanding of what the Law says. It wasn’t just a casual glance or hearing about it. "...and gave the sense, and caused [them] to understand the reading.” – This is the key part. The people weren't just reading the words; they were connecting them to something deeper. They were giving themselves a meaning of what the Law was telling them. They were actively trying to grasp the ideas within the text. What does this tell us about Bible study? This passage highlights several important points: Active Engagement: It shows that true understanding doesn't come from just reading words; it comes from engaging with the content of the message. Purposeful Learning: It suggests that we need to go beyond simply memorizing facts and start to understand why something is important. We need to connect the text to our lives and understanding of God's will. A Spiritual Connection: The act of “giving the sense” – making meaning – points to a spiritual connection. Understanding the law isn’t just about getting it right; it’s about aligning with God’s plan for us. In short, this verse encourages us to go deeper than just reading the words of Scripture – we need to understand why they're important and how they apply to our lives. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Nehemiah 8? Discuss a specific aspect of understanding Bible verses (like allegory)?