Definition: So they smote him, and his sons, and all his people, until there was none left him alive: and they possessed his land.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from the Book of Numbers, chapter 21, verse 35. It’s a really dramatic and violent scene! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: A Giant Spider: The verse tells us that a giant spider – described as being enormous – was attacking a man named Joel. The Spider's Attack: The spider bit Joel, and then it began to attack his entire family and all of his people. It relentlessly attacked them until there was nothing left. Taking Everything: The story continues with the Israelites (the people of Israel) completely destroying everything – their homes, their possessions, and even the land itself. What it's about - A Symbolic Story: This passage is a powerful illustration of God’s judgment. It’s not just about a single spider; it represents a larger, ongoing conflict between God and his people. It symbolizes: God’s Wrath: The verse highlights God’s righteous anger and power. He's actively punishing those who have disobeyed him. The Consequences of Sin: It shows that sin leads to suffering and destruction. When humans disobey God, there are natural consequences. Total Destruction: It’s a story about complete annihilation – the end of everything – when people stray from the path of righteousness. In short, it's a vivid warning about the dangers of disobedience and the importance of following God's commands. Important Note: This is a very old story, and its meaning has been interpreted in different ways throughout history. It’s often seen as a reminder that we must always be careful to follow God's teachings and avoid sin. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this story?