Definition: And divide the prey into two parts; between them that took the war upon them, who went out to battle, and between all the congregation:
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 31:27. It's a really important part of understanding how the Israelites handled captured enemies during their time in battle. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse says: “After a battle, divide the spoils – the food and belongings – into two groups: one for those who fought and one for everyone else.” Let's unpack that a little further: “Divide the prey…” - This refers to the loot and possessions gained during a war. “…into two parts…” - It’s dividing it into separate categories. “Between them that took the war upon them, who went out to battle…” – This is the crucial part! It means those who actively fought in the battle – the soldiers, warriors, and those leading the charge – get a share of the spoils. They’re receiving something directly as a reward for their bravery and effort. “…and between all the congregation:” - This signifies that everyone else – the Israelites themselves, the people who were present at the battle – also gets a portion of the spoils. It's about ensuring fairness and distributing the benefit of victory to all involved. The Context is Important: This verse appears in Numbers 31:27, which describes how the Israelites were to distribute the spoils of war after a significant battle. It was a way for them to show gratitude and ensure that everyone benefited from the conflict. It emphasizes that the victory wasn’t just about winning the battle – it was about sharing the rewards of that victory with those who fought and participated in it. In short, it's a clear instruction on how to handle the spoils of war. Do you want me to: Explain a specific part of the verse in more detail? Give you an example of how this principle might have been applied in ancient Israel?