Definition: He cast out the heathen also before them, and divided them an inheritance by line, and made the tribes of Israel to dwell in their tents.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Psalm 78:55. It speaks about a very significant event in ancient history. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a time when God’s people – the Israelites – were deliberately and strategically separated from other groups of people. They weren’t just left alone; they were actively excluded and given a specific, organized way to live. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “He cast out the heathen also before them…” This means God deliberately chose to exclude others from the area where His people were gathering. It wasn’t random; he made a conscious decision to separate them. Think of it like setting up a boundary or a protective wall. “…and divided them an inheritance by line…” This is a key part. God didn't just leave them in a desolate area. He created a system . He assigned each group of people a specific place – a “line” – to live in, and that line was clearly defined. It’s like giving everyone a designated space within a larger community. “…and made the tribes of Israel to dwell in their tents.” This tells us which group was specifically targeted. The "tribes of Israel" were the original subgroups of the Israelites, and they were given a specific place to live – in tents or settlements. What it means practically: This event is often seen as a symbolic representation of God’s protection and care for His people. It shows that God isn't indifferent to his followers; he actively chooses to keep them safe and secure, and provides them with structure and support. It also highlights the importance of community and organization within the Israelite nation. In a nutshell: God deliberately separated His chosen people from other groups, giving them a defined territory and establishing a system for their lives. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail (like its timing)? Connect it to a specific theme in the Bible (like faith, protection, or community)?