Definition: And ye shall keep the charge of the sanctuary, and the charge of the altar: that there be no wrath any more upon the children of Israel.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 18:5. It's a really important rule set for how to handle sacred spaces in the Old Testament, particularly concerning the Tabernacle and later the Temple. Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, it says: “You must be extremely careful and responsible with the sacred space of God’s house – the Tabernacle (which was a temporary home for God’s people) and the Temple (where sacrifices were made). You need to avoid any anger or punishment against the Israelites.” Let's unpack that a little further: “Numbers 18…” : This refers to a specific part of the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Numbers. “…charge of the sanctuary…” : This means you have a responsibility to protect and safeguard the building itself – the Tabernacle or Temple. Think of it like guarding a precious artifact. “…and charge of the altar…” : This refers to the altar , which was used for sacrifices. Again, you need to protect that space as well. The Key Idea: Peace and Respect The verse is all about maintaining peace and respect. God wants to ensure a peaceful and orderly experience for his people within these sacred places. It’s saying, "Don't let anger or conflict arise from being near these spaces." Why was this rule important? God’s Presence: The Tabernacle/Temple was where God dwelt with his people. It was a place of holiness and connection with the divine. Protecting the People: The verse emphasizes that the Israelites were vulnerable, so protecting their space was vital for their well-being and spiritual life. In short, it's a command to be incredibly cautious and respectful when dealing with God’s sacred spaces. --- Do you want me to explain any of these parts in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain the significance of the Tabernacle/Temple? Discuss what sacrifices were involved? Give an example of how this rule might be enforced (though it was a guideline, not a strict law)?