Definition: And he said, Thou shalt not go through. And Edom came out against him with much people, and with a strong hand.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Genesis 20:20. It's a really significant passage about God’s power and the consequences of disobedience. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: God is testing Abraham’s faith and his willingness to obey him. He’s sending a giant angel to challenge Abraham and his servant, Isaac, to test their loyalty. This angel, who is named Elom, is tasked with trying to get Isaac out of the city. What happened next? Edom Arrives: Edom, a powerful and rebellious nation in the region near Jerusalem, sent a huge army – a massive group of people – to challenge Abraham. They Fight Fiercely: The Edomites didn’t just come with a small force; they came with a lot of people, and they fought very aggressively. God's Response: God says, "You must not go through." This is a direct command from God. It means that Abraham and Isaac are forbidden to pass through the Edomites’ territory. What does it mean? This verse speaks to several important ideas: God’s Sovereignty: It shows that God has ultimate control over everything. He doesn't just let things happen; he actively dictates what happens. His Power and Protection: It highlights God’s power – his ability to overcome any challenge. His command is a demonstration of his strength. Consequences for Disobedience: The phrase "And Edom came out against him with much people, and with a strong hand" suggests that disobedience leads to a negative consequence. It’s not just about being challenged; it's about facing a powerful opposition. In short, this verse is a reminder that God will not tolerate disobedience. It’s a story of obedience, defiance, and God's unwavering protection of his people. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the Genesis 20 story? Discuss the symbolism behind this verse (like it being about testing faith)?