Definition: And they warred against the Midianites, as the LORD commanded Moses; and they slew all the males.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 31:7. It's a pretty serious one, and it’s important to understand its meaning in context. Here’s what it says in simpler terms: “And they warred against the Midianites, as the LORD commanded Moses; and they slew all the males.” Basically, this verse tells us that the Israelites (and specifically a group of people led by Moses) engaged in a military conflict with the Midianites. Here’s what it means: “They warred against…” : This means they were fighting each other. “…as the LORD commanded Moses…” : This is crucial . It tells us this wasn't just some random battle. God gave Moses a specific instruction – to fight against the Midianites. He was essentially tasked with leading them in this conflict. “and they slew all the males” : This is the core of the verse. It means they actively killed every single male from the Midianites. It's a very specific and brutal command. Now, let’s consider the significance: It was a covenant with God: The story of this conflict is deeply connected to the covenant between God and Israel. The covenant is a promise made between God and a people, and it involves faithfulness and obedience. This verse highlights that God's promises are being tested and upheld through his actions. Focus on the masculine: In ancient times, men were often seen as the primary source of strength and leadership. This verse emphasizes that God prioritized the male gender in this conflict. It speaks to a shift in how he viewed humanity and its purpose. Important Note: This passage is incredibly shocking and disturbing because it describes a deliberate killing of all males. It’s a stark reminder of the violence that existed during those times, and it's important to consider the historical context when interpreting this verse. --- Do you want me to delve deeper into any aspect of this verse? For example, would you like to know: Why this story is significant in the Old Testament? What does this verse tell us about God’s relationship with his people? How might this event be interpreted differently by different religious perspectives?