Definition: And they slew the kings of Midian, beside the rest of them that were slain; [namely], Evi, and Rekem, and Zur, and Hur, and Reba, five kings of Midian: Balaam also the son of Beor they slew with the sword.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Numbers 31:8. It’s a pretty dramatic passage about a significant battle! Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Midian is a Kingdom: Midian was a large and important kingdom located in the Levant (modern-day Israel, Lebanon, Syria, etc.). Think of it as a powerful region with a lot of land. A Battle Begins: A group of enemies – likely shepherds and travelers – attacked Midian. They were trying to steal livestock and disrupt the area. The Army is Destroyed: The Israelites (and their allies) fought fiercely, and they defeated these attackers. They killed many of them, including powerful kings and leaders. Specifically, Five Kings are Killed: This verse names five specific kings who were killed: Evi – A prominent king of Midian. Rekem – Another important king. Zur – A leader in the Midian army. Hur – Another key figure. Reba – A warrior who fought bravely. What Happened Next? The Swords Were Drawn: The Israelites used swords to kill these kings. It wasn’t a gentle, peaceful battle; it was a violent and decisive one. Why is this important? This verse shows that God is powerful and can completely defeat even the strongest armies. It's often seen as a sign of God’s protection and might. It also highlights the importance of those who are loyal to God, and their willingness to fight for what is right. In short: This passage describes a brutal battle where the Israelites defeated many powerful kings in Midian, resulting in their deaths by sword. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific story or event in the Bible? Discuss its significance within the larger context of the Old Testament?