Definition: And again the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel, and he moved David against them to say, Go, number Israel and Judah.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 24:1. It's a really powerful and somewhat shocking passage in the Bible that describes God’s reaction to David’s actions. Here’s a simplified explanation: What it means: This verse says that God became angry with Israel because of David’s choices. He then actively directed David to go and find and count up all of Israel and Judah – essentially, to attack and oppress them. Let's unpack the key parts: “And again the anger of the LORD was kindled…” This means God felt a strong feeling of displeasure or wrath. It wasn’t just a little annoyance; it was a deep, significant anger. “…against Israel…” This refers to the Israelites – the people God chose to be his chosen people. “…and he moved David…” This is where it gets interesting. God decided to use David as a tool to cause trouble and harm. “…to say, Go, number Israel and Judah.” This is the crucial part. God commanded David to go out and count up all of Israel and Judah. He wanted him to know their size and how much they were worth to him. What’s the significance? This verse highlights a few important things: God's Sovereignty: It shows that God is in control and has the power to punish those who disobey him. Divine Justice: It speaks to God's justice – He doesn’t just punish; He actively chooses to punish based on his own will. Warning Against Evil: It's a warning against seeking to harm or oppress others, especially when it comes from someone with power and influence like David. In short, this verse describes God’s righteous anger at David’s actions, leading him to actively seek to cause trouble and suffering for the Israelites. --- Disclaimer: I'm an AI assistant and this explanation is based on my understanding of biblical texts. If you need a deeper or more detailed interpretation, it’s always best to consult with a religious scholar or theologian. Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage within the larger story of David and his rebellion?

Definition: And David’s heart smote him after that he had numbered the people. And David said unto the LORD, I have sinned greatly in that I have done: and now, I beseech thee, O LORD, take away the iniquity of thy servant; for I have done very foolishly.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 24:10. It's a really important and somewhat vulnerable moment in David’s life. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core of the Verse: David is admitting to a serious mistake – he messed up badly. He’s saying, “I’ve done something terrible, and I’m begging for forgiveness.” Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And David said unto the LORD…” : This means David was talking directly to God. It’s a moment of deep regret and confession. “…I have numbered the people.” : This is the major part. David was counting the Israeli population – basically, he was trying to calculate how many people lived in Israel. He was doing this to prove his power and authority. “And David said unto the LORD…” : This shows that he knew he had made a mistake – it wasn’t just a simple oversight. “…I have done: and now, I beseech thee, O LORD, take away the iniquity of thy servant; for I have done very foolishly.” : This is where the core of his apology comes in. He's saying: "Please forgive me for what I’ve done! I’ve been a terrible person and I’ve made a huge mistake." “Iniquity” means moral wrongness, bad behavior, or sin. “Beseech thee” means to beg earnestly. What’s the Significance? This verse is very significant because it shows: David's Humility: He’s admitting his wrongdoing, which is a huge step toward repentance. His Awareness of His Sin: He understands he’s fallen short of God's standards. His Plea for Forgiveness: He’s begging for God to take away the consequences of his mistake – essentially, to be forgiven. In essence, it's a moment of profound regret and a desperate plea for redemption. It sets the stage for the events that follow in 2 Samuel, where David will face judgment from God. --- Would you like me to: Explain any specific part of the verse in more detail? Connect this verse to a broader theme in the Bible (like repentance or obedience)? Give you some context about why this story is important?

Definition: For when David was up in the morning, the word of the LORD came unto the prophet Gad, David’s seer, saying,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage together. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: “2 Samuel 24:11 For when David was up in the morning, the word of the LORD came unto the prophet Gad, David’s seer, saying,” Basically, it means: David was awake. This is the starting point – something important happened when David was thinking about himself or his life. God spoke to him. The Word of God (the Bible) was directly communicated to a person named Gad. Gad was a prophet. Gad was someone who was special and understood God's message. What does it all mean in a broader sense? This verse is often seen as a warning about David’s choices. It suggests that even though he was powerful and successful, his actions were leading him down a path of disobedience and trouble. God was speaking to Gad, and the verse essentially says: “God’s word was coming to me, and it was telling me that David needed to be more careful with what he did.” It's a reminder that even good people can make mistakes and that God is watching over us. Important Note: This verse is from the Old Testament (the first five books of the Bible). It’s part of a longer story about David’s life and how he was ultimately judged. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about this passage in history or biblical understanding?

Definition: Go and say unto David, Thus saith the LORD, I offer thee three [things]; choose thee one of them, that I may [do it] unto thee.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 24:12. It’s a pretty dramatic and interesting passage about God’s power and David’s role. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: Basically, God is telling David to choose something for him – and he has to do it. Let’s unpack it word by word: “Go and say unto David…” : This tells us who the message is being delivered to. It’s about God speaking directly to David, the King of Israel. “…Thus saith the LORD…” : This is a way of saying “God speaks” or “God says.” It’s a formal declaration from God. “I offer thee three [things]…” : This is where it gets interesting. God isn't just offering him one thing; he's offering him three . He’s giving him choices. “…choose thee one of them, that I may [do it] unto thee.” : This is the core of the verse. God says, “Choose one of these things for me. Do it for me .” What does this all mean? It’s a powerful statement about God's authority and his control over events. It suggests that God has the power to influence David’s actions in significant ways. It implies: God is involved: David’s life, and perhaps even his kingdom, is being guided by God. God’s Will is Paramount: God isn't just looking at what he wants; he's giving David a choice – a way to fulfill his purpose. Context & Interpretation (a bit deeper): This verse comes from a time when Israel was facing a serious crisis – Saul, David’s predecessor, had become evil and rebellious. God is using this verse as a way to show that He is in control and can intervene to correct the situation. It's often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of pride and disobedience. In short, it’s a dramatic statement about God’s power, his involvement in David’s life, and the consequences of choosing wisely. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the meaning of this verse within its historical context?

Definition: So Gad came to David, and told him, and said unto him, Shall seven years of famine come unto thee in thy land? or wilt thou flee three months before thine enemies, while they pursue thee? or that there be three days’ pestilence in thy land? now advise, and see what answer I shall return to him that sent me.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 24:13. It's a really interesting and somewhat mysterious passage from the Bible. Here’s a simplified explanation: What it’s about: This verse is about God’s protection and concern for King David. It’s essentially a plea from God to protect David from impending disaster. Let’s unpack the parts: "So Gad came to David..." : This tells us the problem is coming from someone who knows David well – Gad, a close advisor. "...and told him, and said unto him, Shall seven years of famine come unto thee in thy land? or wilt thou flee three months before thine enemies, while they pursue thee?" : This is the core of the worry. God is asking about a potential disaster that could affect David’s kingdom – a severe famine. He's also asking if David would run away to safety before his enemies attack. "...or that there be three days’ pestilence in thy land?" : This adds another layer of concern - the possibility of a deadly plague or disease spreading across the land. What’s the point of God's question? God is showing David that he cares about him and his kingdom. He wants to know if David is taking sufficient precautions to protect himself and his people. It’s a way of saying, "I'm watching over you, and I want to ensure your safety." The Significance & Interpretation: This verse doesn’t necessarily mean that this specific disaster is imminent. It's more about God being aware of potential threats and taking proactive steps to safeguard David. It speaks to the idea of divine providence – God actively working for good. Think of it like this: Imagine you’re a shepherd watching over your sheep. You notice a storm coming, and you want to make sure they're safe. You ask them if they’ll run away before the storm hits. God is doing something similar, but on a much grander scale – protecting David’s kingdom. In short: God is concerned about David and his people, and he's asking him to be mindful of potential dangers. --- Would you like me to: Explain another part of this verse? Discuss the context of this passage in a broader biblical story?

Definition: And David said unto Gad, I am in a great strait: let us fall now into the hand of the LORD; for his mercies [are] great: and let me not fall into the hand of man.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 24:14. It’s a really important and slightly poetic passage about David’s perspective on his situation. Here's a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: David is feeling overwhelmed and anxious. He’s in a difficult spot, like being trapped in a tight space. He’s asking God to help him, but he’s worried about falling into man’s control – meaning, falling into the bad decisions or actions of others. Let's unpack it word-by-word: “And David said unto Gad…” : This is David speaking directly to his son, Gad. It’s a personal message. “…I am in a great strait…” : “Strait” means a narrow path or a difficult situation. David feels like he's trapped. “…let us fall now into the hand of the LORD…” : He’s suggesting they turn away from this difficult path and find refuge with God. "Fall" here is metaphorical – it means to surrender to something that isn’t good or right. “for his mercies [are] great: and let me not fall into the hand of man.” : This is the core of the verse. David acknowledges that God's mercy (compassion, kindness, forgiveness) is immense. He’s asking for God to protect him from making mistakes or falling into the wrong choices – from being controlled by others. “Let me not fall” is a plea - he wants to stay on the righteous path. What does it mean in bigger picture? This verse speaks to the idea that we are all vulnerable to temptation and influence. It’s a reminder that: God's Mercies Are Powerful: God doesn't just want to help us; He has immense power to protect us from harm and guide us toward good. We Need Guidance: We often need someone – or something – to steer us away from making poor choices. Trust in God is Key: It encourages us to rely on God's wisdom and protection, rather than trying to fix things ourselves. In essence, David is expressing a recognition of his own vulnerability and seeking reassurance that God will protect him from falling into the wrong path. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain the significance of the word "mercy"? Connect it to a specific story or event in biblical history?

Definition: So the LORD sent a pestilence upon Israel from the morning even to the time appointed: and there died of the people from Dan even to Beersheba seventy thousand men.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage together. This is a really powerful verse from the Bible that describes a devastating plague. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: God is angry: The verse starts with God feeling deeply upset because of the wickedness and disobedience of people in Israel. He’s sending a punishment. A Pestilence Falls: God decides to send a terrible plague – a sickness – across all of Israel. It's not just a few people getting sick; it’s a widespread disaster. Thousands Die: This plague kills a huge number of people - around 70,000 men (and women). It’s a massive loss. What Does This Mean? God’s Justice: It's important to understand this verse as a way for God to show His justice – that He is not happy with the behavior of people and will hold them accountable. It’s like when someone messes up, God might send a punishment to make things right. A Warning: The verse also serves as a warning about the dangers of sin and disobedience. It shows that God doesn't tolerate evil and that people need to turn away from their wrongdoings. Important Context (Briefly): This happened during a time when Israel was facing a lot of problems, including: Political Instability: The kingdom was divided into smaller kingdoms, and there were conflicts between tribes. Widespread Corruption: People were often selfish and greedy, and God saw this as a sign that they weren't listening to Him. In short, it’s a dramatic reminder of God’s power and His judgment against those who stray from His path. --- Do you want me to delve deeper into any particular aspect of this verse? For example, would you like to know: What caused the plague? (It's linked to a specific event in the story.) How does this verse relate to other parts of the Bible?

Definition: And when the angel stretched out his hand upon Jerusalem to destroy it, the LORD repented him of the evil, and said to the angel that destroyed the people, It is enough: stay now thine hand. And the angel of the LORD was by the threshingplace of Araunah the Jebusite.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 24:16. It's a really significant and somewhat surprising passage in the Bible! Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Story: This verse comes about after a terrible event – God sends an angel to destroy Jerusalem. This angel is incredibly powerful, and he’s determined to obliterate the city. But then, God intervenes. He repents (turns away from his evil plan) and tells the angel to stop. What's Happening: The angel of the LORD – a very important figure in Jewish tradition – is watching over Araunah the Jebusite, a man who’s building a massive wall around a hidden valley. He’s essentially being held back by this wall. God says, “It is enough; stay now your hand.” Basically, the angel is told to stop his destructive work. What's Important: God’s Intervention: This verse emphasizes that God always intervenes when things go wrong. He doesn't just passively let events happen; he actively works to prevent disaster. The Angel’s Position: The angel is positioned as a watcher, or observer, of Araunah’s wall. It suggests a level of control and protection. Key Takeaway: This verse highlights God's sovereignty – his absolute authority over all events. He’s not just passively allowing things to happen; he actively stops them when necessary. It also shows that even a powerful angel can be guided by God’s will. In simpler terms, it says: “God is watching and stopping evil before it starts.” --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail?

Definition: And David spake unto the LORD when he saw the angel that smote the people, and said, Lo, I have sinned, and I have done wickedly: but these sheep, what have they done? let thine hand, I pray thee, be against me, and against my father’s house.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 24:17. It’s a really powerful and important passage about sin and repentance. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Story: David is facing a terrible situation – he's witnessing a devastating event where people are suffering because of his actions. He’s feeling incredibly ashamed and remorseful. He’s essentially saying, “I messed up. I did something wrong.” What’s Happening in the Verse: “And David spake unto the LORD when he saw the angel that smote the people…” – This means David was talking to God directly. He was overwhelmed by what he was seeing. “…and said, Lo, I have sinned, and I have done wickedly:” - David is admitting to having committed a serious wrong – something that’s morally bad and harmful. “Wickedly” means doing something that goes against God's will or principles. “But these sheep, what have they done?” – This is the crucial part. David isn't saying he did something bad; he's asking a rhetorical question about the people suffering. He’s pointing out that the people are being harmed because of his actions. What David is Asking: He’s essentially asking God: “How can I be held accountable for this? What kind of behavior has led to this misery?” He’s hoping for a divine judgment – a punishment to make him understand the gravity of his mistake. The Plea: David's plea is a desperate one: “Let thine hand, I pray thee, be against me, and against my father’s house.” This is a powerful command! He’s asking God to punish him for his sin, not just him , but also for the suffering caused by his actions. He's begging for divine justice and a way to make things right. Overall Meaning: This verse speaks about the consequences of sin and the importance of repentance (turning away from wrongdoing). It’s a moment of profound shame and a desperate plea for forgiveness and punishment. It highlights that even though David is human, his actions have real consequences, and he needs to take responsibility for them. In essence, it's a statement about acknowledging your mistakes and begging for God’s judgment. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Connect this passage to other Bible stories or themes (like repentance)?

Definition: And Gad came that day to David, and said unto him, Go up, rear an altar unto the LORD in the threshingfloor of Araunah the Jebusite.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 24:18. It's a really significant passage about God’s judgment and a shift in perspective. Here's a simple explanation: What it says: “And Gad came that day to David, and said unto him, Go up, rear an altar unto the LORD in the threshingfloor of Araunah the Jebusite.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And Gad came that day…” : This refers to a specific man named Gad. He was a servant of David. “…to David…” : This tells us Gad is sent to David, the King of Israel. “…and said unto him…” : David heard Gad’s message. “Go up, rear an altar unto the LORD…” : This is the key part. “Rear an altar” means to build a temple or shrine dedicated to God. David was telling him to build a special place for worship. What does it mean in simpler terms? This verse essentially says: “David needs to build a temple for God.” It's a command from God to David to create a sacred space where he could worship and connect with the divine. It’s a moment of urgency and a shift in focus for the King. The Context - Araunah the Jebusite: Araunah was a man who had built a huge, incredibly dense forest (called a "forest-tree") around his own home. God is angered by this excessive growth and demands that David build a temple in that forest to honor the Lord. This shows God's displeasure with a lack of reverence and a disregard for His creation. Why is this important? This verse speaks about: Divine Justice: It’s a demonstration of God’s justice – He isn’t just punishing David; He’s punishing those who disrespect or ignore the sacredness of the Lord. The Importance of Worship: It highlights that worship is not optional, it's a fundamental part of a relationship with God. In short, this verse tells us that David needs to be dedicated to building a temple – a place where he can connect with and praise God. --- Do you want me to: Explain another biblical passage? Discuss the significance of Araunah the Jebusite?