Definition: And he took it, and the king thereof, and all the cities thereof; and they smote them with the edge of the sword, and utterly destroyed all the souls that [were] therein; he left none remaining: as he had done to Hebron, so he did to Debir, and to the king thereof; as he had done also to Libnah, and to her king.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 10:39. It's a pretty powerful and disturbing passage about a devastating attack. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: A Siege: The verse describes a massive assault on a city called Debir. This was a significant city, likely important for its location or resources. The Attackers: A powerful army – led by Joshua – attacked the city with a sword. They didn’t just destroy buildings; they systematically eliminated everyone inside. Complete Destruction: The attackers completely wiped out everyone who was in the city, including people, animals, and anything else that wasn't part of the attack itself. It was a total annihilation. A Pattern: This event is described as similar to an earlier attack on Hebron and Debir – both cities that were heavily fortified and had significant populations. What’s Being Said? The verse essentially describes a massive, brutal massacre . It's a clear example of a ruthless and merciless attack motivated by a desire to eliminate any resistance. Key Takeaway: It’s a warning about the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of resisting evil. Context - Why is this important? This story is part of a larger narrative in the Old Testament that highlights God's judgment on those who defy him and harbor wickedness. It speaks to themes of: Divine Justice: God is punishing those who are defiant of his will. The Consequences of Evil: Evil doesn’t go unnoticed; it has consequences. God's Sovereignty: God is in control and uses force to protect his people and establish righteousness. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, I could: Explain the historical context (the time period and what was happening at the time). Discuss the symbolism behind the imagery used (e.g., the sword, the destruction). Or perhaps you have a specific question about the meaning of the verse?