Definition: The son of Dekar, in Makaz, and in Shaalbim, and Bethshemesh, and Elonbethhanan:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Kings 4:9. It's a really important part of the story of David and his rise to power! Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse tells us that David was born in four different towns – Makaz, Shaalbim, Bethshemesh, and Elonbethhanan. It's like a list of where he grew up. Let’s unpack each place: Makaz: This is likely a small town near Jerusalem, possibly a village or settlement. Shaalbim: Another small town, probably in the north of Judah. Bethshemesh: A significant city, often considered a center of importance. Elonbethhanan: This is the most unusual – it’s a very remote and important location, possibly far to the west, near the border of Moab. What does this tell us about David? This list suggests that David wasn't just born in a simple village. He was born in four different places, indicating: A Long History: He had a long and varied upbringing. A Diverse Background: His family likely came from various regions of Israel. Strategic Location: His birthplace was strategically important for his future destiny – it gave him a foundation to build upon. Important Note: It’s a bit mysterious why this verse is included in the Bible. It's not a straightforward explanation, but it adds to the rich history and story of David’s early life. --- Do you want me to: Explain why this verse is significant? Give you more context about the time period? Talk about what this verse might symbolize (e.g., his destiny)?