Definition: I will not drive them out from before thee in one year; lest the land become desolate, and the beast of the field multiply against thee.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 23:29. It’s a pretty important passage about God's plan for Israel during a time of great struggle. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is worried about the Israelites being forced to leave their land. He wants them to stay and flourish, but he doesn’t want them to be completely isolated or vulnerable. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “I will not drive them out from before thee in one year…” This is a bit tricky. "Thee" is a formal way of saying “God” – He's speaking directly to God. It means that God isn't going to forcibly remove the Israelites from their land. Instead, He’s giving them a chance to stay. “…lest the land become desolate…” This means "lest" is a word that means “if” or “in case.” If they don’t take this chance, there's a risk that the land will become empty and barren – like a wasteland. “…and the beast of the field multiply against thee.” This is where it gets interesting. "The beast of the field" is a symbolic term for the Israelites themselves. It refers to the entire nation, including its people, leaders, and everything they do. “Multiply” means to grow or increase in number. So, this part suggests that the Israelites might become too large or powerful and cause problems for God. So, what does it mean practically? God is giving Israel a long period of time – one year – to settle down, build up their community, and demonstrate their faithfulness. He’s hoping they will grow strong and prosperous, but he's also aware that they need to be managed so they don't become a threat to themselves or to the land itself. In short: God is looking out for Israel, giving them time to grow and thrive while protecting them from potential problems. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of pride and independence. It’s a reminder that God wants people to be united and focused on His will, rather than becoming too powerful or self-reliant. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in a different way? Connect it to a specific event or story in the Bible? Give you some examples of how this verse is used today?