Definition: And there went great multitudes with him: and he turned, and said unto them,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 14:25. It’s a really important part of Jesus’ teaching about hospitality and how to be a good leader. Here’s the explanation in simple terms: “And there went great multitudes with him: and he turned, and said unto them…” Basically, this is Jesus telling his followers – the people following him – that they are incredibly welcome and valued. Let's unpack it a little: "And there went great multitudes..." This means lots of people were coming. It wasn’t just a small group; it was a huge crowd! "...with him:" Jesus is inviting them to join him. He's offering him their company and attention. “and he turned, and said unto them…” This is the key part. Jesus changed his direction . He’s looking at them and saying something important. What did he say? The exact words aren’t given in this verse, but the meaning is that he was anticipating a big gathering and wanted to tell them something about how they should treat it. The Meaning Behind It: Jesus is teaching us that true importance comes from serving others. When we focus on pleasing others and making them happy, it’s much more rewarding than being focused on ourselves. He's saying: "Don’t just be nice to people; be generous with your time, attention, and resources." Why is this important? It’s about a shift in perspective – from focusing on our own needs to prioritizing the well-being of those around us. It’s a message about humility and service. In short: Jesus was anticipating a large gathering and wanted to tell his followers that they should be welcoming and generous with their time and attention to others, as that is how true importance will be found. --- Do you want me to explain any of this in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain the context of this verse within the larger story of Jesus’ ministry? Discuss why this teaching is still relevant today?

Definition: 1. A type of dried, fermented fava bean paste from Morocco that is traditionally used as a food condiment and ingredient for falafel.<0x0A>2. The word for dried fava bean in Moroccan Arabic.

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Definition: When they heard [that], they were cut [to the heart], and took counsel to slay them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important passage from Acts 5:33. It's a really dramatic and unsettling scene! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: What’s Happening? “When they heard [that]…” – This refers to a significant event that happened before, like a prophecy or an announcement of something terrible. “…they were cut [to the heart]” – This is a figurative way of saying they were shocked and devastated . It suggests a tremendous amount of pain and grief. Think of it like a huge blow to their hearts. “…and took counsel to slay them.” - This means they realized the danger this situation posed, and they started plotting how to stop it. They were thinking about violence and taking steps to eliminate the threat. What's the Big Picture? This verse is a key part of the story of the Apostle Paul’s time in Jerusalem. Here’s what it tells us: The Threat: A powerful, evil force was present – likely a Satanic figure (as described in Revelation). This force was trying to stop the early church from spreading its message. Their Response: These believers, who were being attacked, didn't just passively accept what happened. They immediately recognized the danger and decided to take action. They weren’t afraid of violence; they were strategizing how to defend themselves against this threat. Important Note: This is a very dramatic description. It wasn’t about literal murder. It was a moment of intense fear, planning, and courage – a reflection of the early church's commitment to protecting their faith. In short, it means that when they learned of a serious threat, the believers acted decisively and strategically to protect themselves. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail? Answer any specific questions you have about this story?

Definition: And the LORD said unto Moses, Stretch out thine hand toward heaven, that there may be darkness over the land of Egypt, even darkness [which] may be felt.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from Exodus 10:21. It’s a really significant and dramatic verse that speaks about God’s plan to deliver his people from slavery. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is telling Moses to actively summon darkness over Egypt. He wants to create an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty, so that the Egyptians can't continue to enslave their people. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And the LORD said unto Moses…” : This establishes God as the one in charge and initiating a significant action. “…Stretch out thine hand toward heaven…” : Moses is instructed to reach upwards, towards the sky. It's not just a simple gesture; it’s a deliberate act of calling upon something greater than himself. “That there may be darkness over the land of Egypt…” : This is the core of the verse. God wants to create a period of “darkness” – literally, a state of shadow and uncertainty – in Egypt. “…even darkness [which] may be felt.” : This is where it gets really powerful. The darkness isn’t just seen ; it's felt . It’s a pervasive feeling of fear and anxiety that will spread throughout the land. What does this mean in context? The Israelites were enslaved: This verse describes a crucial moment when God decided to free his people from slavery, which had been happening for 40 years. God’s plan of liberation: It's a powerful demonstration of God's power and determination to bring about deliverance. It’s a sign that his plan is moving forward. A moment of crisis: The verse implies a time of great anxiety and potential danger for the Egyptians, as they are unprepared for this sudden shift in the situation. Overall Significance: This verse is often interpreted as a prelude to God's mighty flood – which he will later use to destroy the Egyptian gods and repeat his deliverance. It’s a moment of intense divine action designed to change the course of history. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Exodus 10? Discuss the symbolism behind darkness in this context? Provide a more detailed explanation of why this verse is so important in biblical interpretation?

Definition: He disappointeth the devices of the crafty, so that their hands cannot perform [their] enterprise.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Job 5:12. It's a really interesting and slightly philosophical idea about how things work in the universe! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says that God doesn’t interfere with or control things that are created by humans – specifically, those who are clever or crafty. Let’s unpack that a little further: “He disappointeth the devices…” : This is a bit of an old-fashioned way of saying “he fails to do what he intends.” Think of it like a machine trying to run without someone directing it. “…the crafty” : This refers to people who are clever, skilled at planning, or maybe even a little mischievous. They’re working with their minds and using tools (like inventions, plans, etc.). “…so that their hands cannot perform [their] enterprise.” : This is the key part. It means these crafty people cannot successfully complete what they've set out to do. Their efforts are thwarted because they’re not in control. What does this say about God? Job 5:12 suggests that God doesn’t need to directly intervene in the world, because those who are clever and ambitious can’t achieve their goals on their own. It implies a level of freedom for creation – that things will naturally unfold as they should. In essence, it's a reminder that even our best plans and efforts are ultimately subject to the natural order of things. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the meaning of this verse in more detail? Connect this idea to other parts of the Bible?

Definition: And David sent messengers to Ishbosheth Saul’s son, saying, Deliver [me] my wife Michal, which I espoused to me for an hundred foreskins of the Philistines.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 3:14. It’s a really important and dramatic part of David's story! Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Situation: David is in trouble: David was King of Israel, but he had a serious problem with his son Saul. Saul was acting strangely and making bad decisions. He needs help: David realized that Saul's son, Ishbosheth, was married to Michal, the wife of Saul. This marriage was a big deal – it was a political alliance between Israel and the Philistines (a group of people to the north). David is desperate: David needed someone to help him get rid of Michal. He’s offering a reward – a hundred foreskins of the Philistine people – in exchange for her release. “Foreskins” means skin, so it’s essentially a hefty payment. What's happening next? David sends a message: David sent a messenger to Ishbosheth and told him to bring Michal back to him. He’s making a deal: He’s offering a significant sum of money (a lot of it!) in exchange for her freedom. It's a risky move, because Saul is a powerful king, and this could be seen as an act of betrayal. In short, the verse describes a tense situation where David was desperately trying to get rid of his son’s wife, with the potential consequence being a large reward. Important Note: This passage is often interpreted as a sign that David might have been planning to kill Saul. It's a complex situation with layers of meaning, and different people have different ideas about what it all means. --- Do you want me to explain any specific aspect of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like to know: What "foreskins" refers to? Why is this passage significant in the Bible?

Definition: I will make thee perpetual desolations, and thy cities shall not return: and ye shall know that I [am] the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this powerful verse from Ezekiel 35:9. It's a really significant statement about God’s relationship with his people and the future of the world. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse essentially says that God is going to cause constant destruction and ruin for those who disobey him and live in sin. He's not just going to have some bad things happen; he’s intentionally setting up a pattern of devastation. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “I will make thee perpetual desolations…” This is the most direct part – God is going to always cause harm and suffering. It's not just occasional problems; this is a guaranteed ongoing process. "...and thy cities shall not return..." This means that those who are defiant and rebellious will be destroyed. The idea isn’t just about physical destruction, but also about the loss of their civilization, their order, and their way of life. It speaks to a complete collapse. "...and ye shall know that I [am] the LORD.” This is the crucial part. It's not just that God is doing this; it’s who God is. He is the Lord, and he is in control of these events. It emphasizes that God is the ultimate authority and ruler. What does it mean practically? This verse speaks to a long-term perspective and highlights several key themes: Judgment: It’s about God's justice being served. He’s holding people accountable for their choices. Consequences of Sin: It's a warning against sin and disobedience, as it will inevitably lead to ruin. God's Sovereignty: It underscores that God is in complete control of the situation, and he isn't just passively allowing things to happen; he’s actively working towards a specific outcome. Important Note: It’s important to remember this verse often refers to a period of intense judgment and suffering for Israel during the time of Ezekiel. It's not necessarily about our current struggles, but rather a future event where God will punish those who reject him. In short, this verse is a powerful declaration that God is actively working towards a devastating end for those who refuse his guidance. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Discuss its context within the Old Testament? Relate it to a specific story or biblical figure?

Definition: And my master made me swear, saying, Thou shalt not take a wife to my son of the daughters of the Canaanites, in whose land I dwell:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Genesis 24:37. It’s a really important piece of scripture that speaks about God's plan for a specific relationship and protection. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is protecting his son, Jacob (who later becomes patriarch of Israel), by making sure he doesn’t marry a woman from the Canaanites – a group of people living far away on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea. Let's unpack it further: “And my master made me swear…” : This is God telling Jacob that he has been entrusted with this important task. It's like a promise or a vow. “…saying, Thou shalt not take a wife to my son of the daughters of the Canaanites…” : This is the core instruction. God is saying absolutely no that Jacob should marry a woman from the Canaanites. Specifically, he’s forbidding him from marrying a woman named Leah – who was Jacob's sister. “…in whose land I dwell.” : This is crucial. The Canaanites live on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea. God is saying that this restriction applies because they are in that region. What’s happening here? This verse sets up a situation where Jacob needs to find a wife for his son, and God is actively intervening to ensure he doesn't make a mistake. It shows God’s care and protection for his family. It highlights that God has a plan and is watching over events. In essence, it's about safeguarding Jacob’s lineage and ensuring the continuation of his family line. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail (like why it was important at the time)? Answer a specific question you have about it?

Definition: And Saul took him that day, and would let him go no more home to his father’s house.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 18:2. It’s a really important moment in the story of David! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, Saul, the king at the time, decided to keep David with him for good. Let's unpack that a little further: “And Saul took him…” – This means Saul was actively pursuing and keeping David by his side. “…and would let him go no more home to his father’s house.” - This is the key part! Saul had been searching for David since he was a young boy, and he believed David was destined for a very important role in God's plan. He wanted to keep David close to his family and home, where he felt he could receive guidance and support from his father. So, what does this tell us about the relationship between Saul and David? It shows that Saul wasn’t just being a stern king – he was deeply invested in David's future and believed he needed to be with him. It implies a strong sense of obligation and perhaps even a bit of worry for David’s well-being. Why is this important? This verse is significant because it marks a pivotal moment in the story of David’s life. It sets up the events that lead to David becoming the King of Israel, and it highlights Saul's devotion and strategic thinking. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Give you some context about this passage in the story?