Definition: But it came to pass in the seventh month, that Ishmael the son of Nethaniah, the son of Elishama, of the seed royal, came, and ten men with him, and smote Gedaliah, that he died, and the Jews and the Chaldees that were with him at Mizpah.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Kings 25:25. It’s a really important and sobering passage about a terrible event in ancient Israel. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Ishmael arrived: A young man named Ishmael, the son of Nethaniah (a royal prince), came to Mizpah (a city near Jerusalem) with ten men. He killed Gedaliah: This is the core of the story. They brutally murdered Gedaliah, a Jewish man who had been taken to Babylon as a slave. The Jews and Chaldees were harmed: These ten men – and the people they brought with them – attacked and killed Gedaliah. This happened while there were also Jewish and Chaldean people present at Mizpah. What’s Being Told? This verse is a warning about a very serious event that occurred during a time of crisis. It's essentially a record of a violent attack and its consequences. Key Interpretations & Context: A Time of Crisis: The story happened during a period of great turmoil – the Babylonian exile, where the Israelites were exiled from their land. This was a devastating time filled with hardship and fear. The Root of the Problem: This event highlights that the people weren't just reacting to a single incident; it was part of a pattern of rebellion and violence. A Sign of Rebellion: The action of killing Gedaliah is seen as a sign that the Israelites were losing their way and becoming increasingly defiant against God’s rule. What does this verse say about God? It suggests that God is watching over his people, but also has a strong sense of justice. He's punishing those who betray him and act with violence. It shows that even in times of trouble, He remains vigilant. Important Note: This is a very old text, and the exact meaning can be debated among scholars. However, it’s generally understood as a stark reminder of the dangers of disobedience and rebellion against God's authority. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like: A deeper dive into the names involved (Ishmael, Gedaliah)? The historical context surrounding the exile? Different possible interpretations of what this verse means?