Definition: And ye shall measure from without the city on the east side two thousand cubits, and on the south side two thousand cubits, and on the west side two thousand cubits, and on the north side two thousand cubits; and the city [shall be] in the midst: this shall be to them the suburbs of the cities.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 35:5. It’s a really important passage about building a wall around a city – and it has some fascinating implications! Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, they were going to build a huge wall around the city to protect it. Let’s unpack each of those “two thousand cubits” (which is roughly 360 feet): Two thousand cubits on the east side: This is the outer edge of the wall. Two thousand cubits on the south side: This is the outer edge of the wall, further out than the east side. Two thousand cubits on the west side: Again, this is the outer edge. Two thousand cubits on the north side: This is the outer edge. The whole thing means they were building a wall that stretched all around the city. And here’s the really cool part: “This shall be to them the suburbs of the cities.” This is what makes it so significant. “Suburbs” – This word means a protected area, a neighborhood, or a buffer zone. “Of them” - It’s referring back to the city itself. So, this wall wasn't just for defense; it was designed to create a secure area around the city. It’s like building a protective perimeter around a valuable asset – in this case, the city. Why is this important? This verse highlights several key ideas: Protection: It emphasizes defensive measures. Boundaries: It establishes clear boundaries for the city. Control: It suggests a level of control over the surrounding area. Security: It’s a foundational element in establishing security and prosperity for the city. In short, this verse describes a massive wall built around a city as a demonstration of protection and to establish control. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the Bible verse? Give you more context about the time period when this was written? Discuss what this passage might symbolize in general (like defense, boundaries, or security)?