Definition: And if we have not [rather] done it for fear of [this] thing, saying, In time to come your children might speak unto our children, saying, What have ye to do with the LORD God of Israel?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 22:24. It’s a really complex and dramatic passage, but here's the gist in plain language: The Core Idea: This verse is about a betrayal and a desperate attempt to hide something terrible. It’s a moment of intense fear and anger. Here’s what it means, broken down piece by piece: “And if we have not [rather] done it for fear of…” : This immediately establishes the context – it's not about simply avoiding a mistake. It’s about a deep, overwhelming fear. The word “rather” is crucial; it suggests a significant shift in perspective. “…your children might speak unto our children…” : This refers to a future generation who will somehow discover what happened. The key here is "might speak." It's not guaranteed – it’s an possibility . "...saying, What have ye to do with the LORD God of Israel?" : This is the shocking part. The people are trying to deflect attention from a terrible act by pretending it didn’t happen. They’re attempting to create a false narrative to avoid consequences. Putting it all together: The verse describes a moment where a group of people – likely leaders or officials – were so afraid and angry that they deliberately tried to mislead future generations about a significant transgression. They wanted to prevent the truth from being revealed, even if it meant trying to manipulate history. What's the significance? This is a powerful example of how fear and deception can be used as a weapon. It highlights the importance of honesty and transparency – a fundamental principle of faith in the Bible. It also warns against attempts to hide or distort truth, which ultimately leads to trouble. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of pride and manipulation. --- Do you want me to: Explain any specific part of this verse in more detail? Connect it to a particular biblical story or theme (like repentance)?