Definition: Whereupon the princes of Israel and the king humbled themselves; and they said, The LORD [is] righteous.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 12:6. It's a really important part of understanding how God’s judgment came to pass in ancient Israel. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a moment of deep shame and acknowledgment by the people of Israel and even the king, recognizing that they had been wrong and were in trouble with God. It's about admitting their own failings. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Whereupon the princes of Israel…” : This refers to a group of leaders – the royal family and important officials – who were listening to the news and hearing about the events that had happened. “…and the king humbled himself…” : The King, as the head of the nation, was acknowledging his own responsibility for their mistakes. He was admitting he wasn't handling things well. "...and they said, The LORD [is] righteous.” This is the crucial part. They said that God was just and right. It’s a statement of acceptance – they recognized that God was in control and that their actions were wrong. What does this mean practically? This verse is often interpreted as a sign of repentance. It suggests that Israel had been acting foolishly, perhaps due to pride or rebellion, and now they understood the gravity of their situation. It’s a moment where they realized they needed to turn back to God. Why was this important? In ancient times, the Israelites were deeply concerned about their relationship with God. This verse is seen as a turning point – it marked the beginning of a period of repentance and seeking forgiveness. It's considered a foundational moment in understanding why God ultimately judged them. In short: The verse describes a group of people admitting they made a mistake and acknowledging that God was just and righteous. It’s a pivotal moment in history, signifying a shift towards repentance and seeking God’s favor. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of 2 Chronicles 12? Discuss the context of this verse within the larger story of Israel's history? Talk about what this verse might symbolize in a broader theological sense (like sin and repentance)?