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?