Definition: Yet I have left [me] seven thousand in Israel, all the knees which have not bowed unto Baal, and every mouth which hath not kissed him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this important verse from 1 Kings 19:18. It’s a really striking passage about God's care for his people! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a situation where God is sending a group of Israelites – around seven thousand strong – to a dangerous and remote place. He’s prioritizing their safety and well-being above all else. Let’s unpack the details: “Yet I have left [me] seven thousand…” This is the key part. It's not about God leaving them in a way that’s easy or comfortable for them. He’s deliberately choosing to leave them with you . He’s placing his trust and care squarely on your shoulders. “…all the knees which have not bowed unto Baal…” This is a crucial part of the story. "Baal" was a very important, ancient deity in Israel. It was a polytheistic god – meaning he had many gods and goddesses - and it was considered to be a powerful and dangerous figure. God commanded the Israelites not to worship him. He wanted them to focus on Him and their relationship with God. Basically, they were being told to stay away from this particular deity. “and every mouth which hath not kissed him.” This is where it gets really significant. “Kissing” here refers to a specific type of ritual : the worship of God in a way that honored Him – not through offerings or sacrifices, but through sincere devotion and praise. The verse says they must not even think about worshipping this deity. It's a complete prohibition against idolatry - focusing on something other than God. What does this mean for us today? This story is often interpreted as a message of God's unwavering love and protection. It speaks to: Trust in God: He’s choosing to protect his people, even when it seems risky. Avoiding temptation: It warns against seeking something that isn’t real or true – in this case, false gods and idolatry. Prioritizing the relationship with God: It emphasizes that our relationship with Him is far more important than anything else. In short, it's a powerful reminder to stay focused on God and his truth, even when things are difficult. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in a different way? Discuss the historical context of this story? Explore what it might mean for our lives today?