👉 And the people came to the house of God, and abode there till even before God, and lifted up their voices, and wept sore;
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Judges 21:2. It’s a really powerful and significant verse that speaks about a dramatic event in ancient Israel. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Story: This verse tells us about a group of people who were trespassing on God’s property – specifically, a place where He had established a temple. They weren’t just being disrespectful; they were actively weeping and trying to reach Him. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Judges 21:2” : This tells us where this happened – in the house of God. The "house of God" is a symbolic place, representing God’s presence and holiness. It was a special, sacred area where God lived and acted. “And the people came to the house of God…” - This refers to a group of people who were trespassing or disrespecting this holy space. “…and abode there till even before God…” – This is the crucial part. They weren't just near the place; they stayed there , essentially occupying it. It was a long, prolonged stay. “And lifted up their voices, and wept sore.” - This is where the intensity of the event comes in. They were wailing – expressing deep sorrow and distress. The word "sore" suggests an overwhelming feeling of pain and hopelessness. They were crying out to God with a great deal of anguish. Overall Meaning & Significance: This verse paints a picture of profound disrespect and a desperate plea for forgiveness. It highlights: Serious Sin: The people were clearly guilty of violating the sacred space of God. Divine Wrath: Their actions – trespassing and weeping – demonstrated a significant degree of anger and displeasure from God. Seeking Forgiveness: Their tears weren't just expressions of sadness; they were a desperate attempt to be reconciled with God. They were seeking His forgiveness for their wrongdoing. Why is this important? This story is often seen as a foreshadowing of the larger events in the Old Testament, particularly the story of the Flood. It shows that even after significant sin, there's a need for repentance and seeking God’s mercy. It’s a reminder that God is always willing to listen to those who humbly turn to Him. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some historical context about the story? Discuss the significance of this passage within the larger narrative of the Old Testament?