Definition: Thou shalt surely smite the inhabitants of that city with the edge of the sword, destroying it utterly, and all that [is] therein, and the cattle thereof, with the edge of the sword.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Deuteronomy 13:15. This verse is a really important part of God's laws given to Moses when he was leading Israel out of Egypt. It’s about military conquest and protection. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: God is telling the Israelites, “If you choose to settle in this land, you must be prepared to defend it with a sword.” Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Thou shalt surely smite…” – This is a very strong command. It means "You must do this." It’s not just a suggestion; it’s a direct instruction. “…the inhabitants of that city with the edge of the sword…” - This refers to a specific city or settlement. God is giving you the right to use a weapon – a sword – to defeat those who live there. "...destroying it utterly, and all that [is] therein, and the cattle thereof, with the edge of the sword.” – This is the most detailed part. It means: “utterly” : You must completely obliterate the city and its people. No survivors are allowed to escape. "...all that [is] therein" : This includes everything within the city walls – people, animals, buildings, everything. “…the cattle thereof” : This means all the livestock (sheep, cows, etc.) will be taken as well. What's the point of this? The verse is designed to protect Israel from being overrun by other nations. It’s a harsh command, but it’s rooted in God's protection and his desire for a secure homeland for his people. It emphasizes that you must defend your territory against any threat. Important Context: This verse is part of a larger discussion about the laws God gave to the Israelites regarding warfare. It was a difficult message, but it’s important because it establishes a clear boundary and gives them the authority to defend themselves. Disclaimer: I want to be very clear: this passage is deeply complex and has been interpreted in various ways throughout history. This explanation aims for a basic understanding of the core meaning. --- Do you have any specific questions about this verse that I can help answer? For example, would you like me to: Explain the historical context of this verse? Discuss the different interpretations of it? Compare it to other similar passages in the Bible?