Definition: But God said unto me, Thou shalt not build an house for my name, because thou [hast been] a man of war, and hast shed blood.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Chronicles 28:3. It’s a really important and complex passage about God's perspective on people who are involved in conflict. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: God is saying that the person described in the verse – “you” – isn't meant to be building a shrine or dwelling place for him . It’s suggesting they are involved in war and bloodshed. Let's unpack it word by word: “But God said unto me…” - This is a direct address from God to the speaker. It’s like God is speaking directly to someone who has committed a serious sin. “…Thou shalt not build an house for my name…” – "Thou" is a formal way of addressing someone, and “build an house” means to create a place where something sacred is housed. This suggests they are creating something for God . "...because thou [hast been] a man of war…” - This is the crucial part. The speaker is being called out as a warrior – someone who fights and battles. “Hast been” is a plural form, implying multiple times or repeatedly engaging in conflict. "...and hast shed blood." - This is the core of the message. Shedding blood means causing harm, violence, and death. It’s a serious act of aggression and loss. What it Means – A Broad Interpretation: The verse speaks to a significant moral failing: excessive or uncontrolled conflict. It suggests that this person has been involved in battles and bloodshed too frequently or too intensely . Important Context & Why It Matters: This verse is part of a larger story about the Israelites’ history. God had been setting boundaries for them, and this speaker was breaking those boundaries by continuously engaging in conflict. It highlights a potential issue with their leadership – they were prioritizing warfare over righteousness and God's will. In essence, the verse is a warning against constant violence and a call to seek peace and righteousness. It’s about recognizing that even though we may be part of a larger struggle, our actions must always be guided by obedience to God's laws. --- To help me tailor this explanation further, could you tell me: Are you interested in a more detailed explanation of the historical context? Would you like me to focus on a specific aspect of the verse (e.g., its symbolism)?