Definition: And the children of Israel journeyed, and came unto their cities on the third day. Now their cities [were] Gibeon, and Chephirah, and Beeroth, and Kirjathjearim.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 9:17. It’s a bit complex, but here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse describes the Israelites’ journey back to Jerusalem after a period of exile and wandering. Let’s unpack it: “And the children of Israel journeyed…” – This means the Israelites were moving again, returning to their ancestral homeland in Canaan (modern-day Israel). “…and came unto their cities on the third day.” - They returned to Jerusalem on the third day after a long period away. “Third day” is a crucial detail. “Now their cities [were] Gibeon, and Chephirah, and Beeroth, and Kirjathjearim.” – This is the key part! It tells us exactly which cities they were returning to. These are all significant locations within Jerusalem that held important religious significance for the Israelites. What does this mean? This verse is a reminder of a very important event in the Old Testament: the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem. It’s telling us that the Israelites were returning back to their ancestral home, and they were returning to these specific cities that were vital for religious practice. In short: The Bible says the Israelites journeyed back to Jerusalem after a long time away, and they returned to these important cities – Gibeon, Chephirah, Beeroth, and Kirjathjearim – which held deep significance in their religious life. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of this further? Give you a little more context about the history behind these cities? Discuss what this verse might symbolize (like a return to God’s chosen people)?