Definition: And it came to pass, when the king of Israel had read the letter, that he rent his clothes, and said, [Am] I God, to kill and to make alive, that this man doth send unto me to recover a man of his leprosy? wherefore consider, I pray you, and see how he seeketh a quarrel against me.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Kings 5:7. It’s a really intense and dramatic passage about a king’s reaction to a letter. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: King Saul is receiving a letter. This letter is a serious warning from God, specifically concerning a man named Saul (the king of Israel). Saul is confused and panicked. He's reading it with a lot of worry and questioning. He’s feeling overwhelmed by the message. He asks a crucial question: “Does this man have a ‘leprosy’?” – This is a really important phrase. What “Leprosy” Means (and why it’s so significant): In ancient times, leprosy was a disease caused by infection. It marked someone as cursed and unable to be healthy. The Hebrew word "leprosy" in this context wasn't about physical illness. It meant a spiritual affliction – a deep-seated guilt, shame, and a broken relationship with God. Saul’s Response: He rents his clothes. This is a huge symbolic gesture. He’s throwing away his traditional robes and symbols of power, signifying he's losing control. He asks the question: “I am God… to kill and to make alive?” – This is a desperate plea. Saul is questioning whether he is God and if he has the right to take action. He’s feeling like he’s being called to judgment. He's seeking to understand why. He’s trying to figure out what this letter means for him – what kind of trouble he's causing and whether he needs to repent (turn away from his sins). The Overall Meaning: This passage is a snapshot of Saul’s internal struggle. He’s overwhelmed by the message, feeling like he's being singled out and facing punishment. It highlights: A Crisis of Faith: Saul is questioning his own judgment and whether he’s doing what God wants him to do. The Weight of Responsibility: He feels responsible for a potentially devastating situation. In short, the verse captures a moment of intense anxiety and self-doubt in a king facing a serious challenge. --- Do you want me to delve deeper into any specific aspect of this passage? For example, would you like to know: Why leprosy was seen as a symbol of sin back then? What does this verse tell us about the nature of leadership and accountability?