Definition: Defile not therefore the land which ye shall inhabit, wherein I dwell: for I the LORD dwell among the children of Israel.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 35:34. It's a really important and profound statement about God’s relationship to the Israelites. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is dwelling among the people of Israel. He’s not just visiting them, but actively living with them. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Numbers 35” : This refers to a specific section of the Old Testament. It’s a chapter in the Book of Numbers. “Defile not…” : This is a strong word – “defile” means to stain or corrupt something. So, it means not to harm or pollute the land. “…the land which ye shall inhabit…” : This speaks about the land that Israel lives in – their homeland. “wherein I dwell…” : This is where God is specifically located. He’s not just near them; he's dwelling among them. “I the LORD dwell…” : This is the key part! It says that God, the Lord, himself lives with them. Putting it all together: God isn’t just observing or occasionally visiting them. He’s actively present and living amongst them. He’s making his home with them, offering protection, guidance, and ultimately, blessing them. Why is this significant? This verse highlights several important themes: God’s Presence: It emphasizes God's presence in the lives of His people. Divine Protection: It suggests that God actively protects and sustains his people. Relationship & Covenant: It speaks to a deeper, ongoing relationship between God and Israel, built on trust and faithfulness. In essence, it’s a statement about God's sovereignty and His commitment to his people. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you an example of how this verse is used in the Bible?