Definition: Then the king of Israel gathered the prophets together, about four hundred men, and said unto them, Shall I go against Ramothgilead to battle, or shall I forbear? And they said, Go up; for the Lord shall deliver [it] into the hand of the king.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Kings 22:6. It’s a really important and somewhat dramatic passage in the Bible! Here's what it means in simple terms: The Core Situation: King David is facing a conflict with a group of rebellious people called the Arameans. These Arameans are a significant problem for Israel because they’re constantly challenging the king’s authority. The King wants to settle this dispute. He asks the prophets, who are messengers sent by God, to decide whether to fight against the Arameans or not. What the Verse Says – It's About a Dangerous Decision: “Then the king of Israel gathered the prophets together, about four hundred men, and said unto them: Shall I go against Ramothgilead to battle, or shall I forbear?” “Shall I go against Ramothgilead…” – This is the pivotal question. The King is asking if he should fight against a group of people called the Arameans in a nearby area called Ramothgilead. “…or shall I forbear?” – This is the crucial part. He’s offering a choice: either go to battle or not. The Significance – God's Will & A Test: Now, here’s what the verse suggests about why this is happening: God wants to show His power. The King is essentially asking God to demonstrate God’s strength and will. He wants to see if God has a plan for the conflict. It's a test of faith. The verse implies that the King isn’t just deciding on a battle; he’s testing the loyalty and faith of his people. The prophets are asking him, "Are you willing to defy God and fight?" Overall Meaning: This passage highlights that God is involved in matters of war and conflict. He's choosing to intervene and take a stand, even if it means challenging those around him (the Arameans). It’s a moment where the King is recognizing that God is ultimately in control and that his decisions are guided by His will. Important Note: This verse is part of a larger story about the rise and fall of kings and the relationship between God and humanity. It shows a shift from a more traditional, perhaps even tyrannical king to one who is increasingly reliant on divine guidance. --- Do you want me to: Explain this passage in more detail? Compare it to other Bible stories with similar themes?