Definition: And when the people were come into the camp, the elders of Israel said, Wherefore hath the LORD smitten us to day before the Philistines? Let us fetch the ark of the covenant of the LORD out of Shiloh unto us, that, when it cometh among us, it may save us out of the hand of our enemies.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from 1 Samuel 4:3. It’s a really important and dramatic passage about a serious crisis facing Israel. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: They're Under Attack: The Israelites were facing a big threat – the Philistines, who were invading their land. They were losing ground before the battle. A Plea for Help: The elders of Israel were desperately pleading with God to intervene and save them. They felt like they were in danger. The Ark's Importance: The key thing is that the Ark of the Covenant , a sacred object containing the tablets of the Law, was hidden in Shiloh – a place of great importance for worship. What They’re Asking God to Do: They’re asking God to bring the Ark out of Shiloh and bring it back to them. They believe that if they can get it back, it will be a way to protect them from being defeated by the Philistines. The Meaning – It's About Protection & Faith: This verse is a combination of several ideas: God’s Care for His People: It shows that God deeply cares about Israel and wants to protect them. Faith and Hope: The elders are expressing a great deal of hope and faith that God will intervene in this difficult situation. They're relying on God's power to save them. In short, it’s a message of trust and a desperate plea for divine protection. Context is Key – It’s More Than Just a Simple Request: It’s important to remember that the verse comes after a period of defeat. It's a moment of intense worry and anxiety for the Israelites. This verse is a turning point – it signifies a shift in their strategy and a belief that God will ultimately prevail. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Connect this verse to a specific event or story in the Bible? Discuss the significance of the Ark of the Covenant?