Definition: Now therefore take you twelve men out of the tribes of Israel, out of every tribe a man.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 3:12. It’s a really significant and dramatic passage about God’s plan to conquer Canaan (the land that eventually became Israel). Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God is telling the Israelites – specifically, the tribes of Israel – to choose twelve men from each tribe to go up and destroy the city of Jerusalem. Let’s unpack that a little further: “Now therefore take you twelve men out of the tribes of Israel…” This means God is giving them a specific task. He's choosing twelve individuals from each tribe (the groups that make up Israel). “…out of every tribe a man.” This is the key part. It’s saying that each tribe – each group of people – must send one man. It’s not just one man from each tribe; it's a complete and equal selection. Why is this happening? The Bible says this is a last resort measure. God is showing his power and control to make sure that the land of Canaan will be rightfully his. He wants to show His judgment on those who resist him, and to secure Israel’s future as his chosen people. It’s about demonstrating God's authority and bringing about a complete victory against evil. Important Note: This is a very powerful verse with a lot of symbolism. It’s not just about physical destruction; it represents a spiritual battle where God is defeating evil and establishing His kingdom. --- Do you want me to: Explain why this verse was important in the Old Testament? Talk about the context of this event in the Bible? Or perhaps delve into a specific interpretation of this verse?