Definition: The tenth to Shimei, [he], his sons, and his brethren, [were] twelve:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Chronicles 25:17. It’s a really important part of understanding the story of David and his court. Here's what it means in simple terms: Essentially, this verse says: “The tenth to Shimei, [he], his sons, and his brethren – that is, David’s family – were twelve.” Let's unpack that a bit further: “The tenth to Shimei” : This refers to a specific person named Shimei. Shimei was a very important advisor to King David. He was known for being skilled at strategy and often voiced concerns about David’s actions. “[He], his sons, and his brethren” : This means that Shimei had several children with him – likely a few. “Brothers” refers to David’s other sons, and “his” indicates he was the father of these children. So, what's the big deal? This verse is significant because it tells us that David had a large family! This wasn’t just about having many kids; it highlights the importance of his lineage and the potential for conflict within his court. It shows that he was building a strong foundation for his kingdom. Context is Key: The Bible often uses this kind of detail to show how things are arranged in a family or group. It’s a way of illustrating the relationships between people – their roles, responsibilities, and potential tensions. --- Do you want me to explain anything else about this verse? For example, would you like me to: Explain the significance of Shimei's role in David's life? Discuss how this verse relates to the story of the Book of Samuel?