Definition: Only the cattle and the spoil of that city Israel took for a prey unto themselves, according unto the word of the LORD which he commanded Joshua.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 8:27. It’s a really important passage about God's judgment and the aftermath of the Israelites’ defeat at the Battle of Jericho. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Israel Lost: The Israelites, led by Joshua, were defeated by the powerful city of Jericho. They lost their livestock and spoils (food, possessions) – everything they had – and wandered into the desert. God's Punishment: God decided that these things must be used for His people’s benefit. He commanded Joshua to take them as a sacrifice. Let’s unpack it further: “Only the cattle…” : This means they were primarily focused on taking livestock – sheep, goats, and other animals. “…and the spoil of that city Israel…” : "That city" refers to Jericho, which was a major city. “Spoil” is a fancy word for leftover food or possessions. "...Israel took for a prey unto themselves..." : This is the key part! "Took" means they used them. "Into themselves" means they became reliant on them – they were completely dependent on these animals. It’s like they were trapped and held captive by their own losses. "...according unto the word of the LORD which he commanded Joshua." : This is a crucial part. God gave Joshua a specific instruction: "Take what you have taken, but use it for the benefit of your people." What's the big takeaway? This verse highlights that even when we lose things – our possessions, our power, even our confidence – God’s love and purpose can be found in using those losses to help others. It emphasizes a shift from selfishness to service. It shows that God doesn’t just punish us for our mistakes; He uses them to build something better for His people. In short: Joshua 8:27 tells us that the Israelites' defeat led to them being held captive by their own losses, and God used those losses as a way to help his people. It's a reminder of God’s generosity and purpose even in difficult times. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? Would you like me to connect it to a specific theme (like faith, redemption, or divine providence)?