Definition: And thou shalt rejoice before the LORD thy God, thou, and thy son, and thy daughter, and thy manservant, and thy maidservant, and the Levite that [is] within thy gates, and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, that [are] among you, in the place which the LORD thy God hath chosen to place his name there.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Deuteronomy 16:11. It’s a really important piece of advice for how to live as a Jewish people and for those who follow God. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it’s saying: “Don’t just be polite; joyfully show your gratitude and love to God.” Let's unpack that a little further: “And thou shalt rejoice before the LORD thy God…” – This is the core of the message. It means to feel thankful, happy, and positive towards God. It’s about recognizing His goodness and loving Him. Think of it like feeling a warm glow inside when you appreciate something good. “…you, and your son, and your daughter, and your manservant, and your maidservant, and the Levite that [is] within thy gates…” – This is about focusing on those who are close to God. It’s suggesting that we should treat these people with kindness, respect, and gratitude. “The Levite within your gates” refers to the clergy (priests and ministers) in religious settings. Basically, it means showing extra care and consideration to those who are part of your community and connected to God. “…and the stranger, and the widow, and the fatherless, and the widow…” – This highlights compassion for those who are vulnerable or alone. It’s about showing empathy and helping those who might be struggling. It suggests a sense of responsibility to care for those who aren't able to look after themselves. “…and in the place which the LORD thy God hath chosen to place his name there.” – This is the most important part. The Lord (God) has chosen specific places or locations to be honored and celebrated. This means that we should always remember and acknowledge God’s presence and blessings wherever He is working, whether it's in our homes, communities, or even just in our hearts. In a nutshell: Deuteronomy 16:11 encourages us to express our joy and love for God through thoughtful treatment of those closest to Him – family, neighbors, and those who are vulnerable. It’s about recognizing His goodness and honoring the blessings He provides. Why is this important? It's a reminder that we shouldn’t just be polite; we should actively show our gratitude and love to God and those around us. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Give an example of how this verse might apply in everyday life?