Definition: These [are] they that went over Jordan in the first month, when it had overflown all his banks; and they put to flight all [them] of the valleys, [both] toward the east, and toward the west.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Chronicles 12:15. It’s a really important part of understanding a story about God’s protection and judgment. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: This verse describes a group of people – likely Israelites – who were traveling over the Jordan River. The river was overflowing with water, causing huge floods. They were so overwhelmed that they had to actively fly (literally, “take flight”) away from the valley and towards the east and west. Let’s unpack it: “These [are] they?” - This is a way of saying "those people" – we're talking about a specific group of individuals. “Went over Jordan in the first month” : They were traveling across the Jordan River during the first month of the year, which was a time when it was very heavy with rain and flooding. “when it had overflown all his banks” : This is the key part! The river had completely burst its banks, overflowing into areas it usually wouldn’t reach. It was like a giant flood. “they put to flight all [them] of the valleys” : This means they actively moved away from the area where the flooding was most intense. They were forced to go somewhere else. “Putting them to flight” suggests a forceful removal or relocation. “both toward the east, and toward the west.” : They moved eastward and westward – essentially, they had to travel in different directions to avoid the worst of the floodwaters. What does it all mean? This verse is telling us about God’s protection. The overflowing river was a sign that God was angry with the Israelites and their lack of respect for His commands. By forcing them to move away, He was showing them that they needed to be careful and obedient to his will. It's a powerful image of God intervening to protect His people from disaster. In essence, it’s a story about divine judgment and the Israelites needing to be aware of God’s power. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail?