Definition: And that year they vexed and oppressed the children of Israel: eighteen years, all the children of Israel that [were] on the other side Jordan in the land of the Amorites, which [is] in Gilead.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 10:8. It's a really important and sobering passage about a period of intense hardship for the Israelites. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: The Problem Started Early: This verse describes a long, difficult time for the Israelites after they left Egypt. Around 18 years before this verse, there was a significant problem with the Israelites moving further into the land of Moab, which bordered the region of Gilead (a place called “Gilead”). The Amorites Invaded: The Amorites – a group of people from the Middle East – started to invade and oppress the Israelites. They were essentially making life difficult for them. Eighteen Years of Suffering: This verse states that these invasions lasted for eighteen years! During this time, they relentlessly harassed and oppressed the Israelites, causing great suffering. What it Means - A Deeper Look: “Vexed and oppressed” : This means they were actively trying to make life miserable for the Israelites. They weren’t just being indifferent; they were deliberately causing problems. "The Children of Israel on the other side Jordan in the land of the Amorites…” : This is crucial. The “children of Israel” refers to the Israelites who had left Egypt and wandered throughout the land. They were now living in a region called Moab, which bordered the area of Gilead. "...which is in Gilead" : This tells us that Gilead was a specific place – a fortified settlement – that the Amorites controlled. It became a central point for their oppression. The Significance: This verse highlights a pattern of hardship and captivity for the Israelites. It shows that even after they had been freed from slavery, they continued to face challenges and struggles. It's a reminder that suffering can linger and persist through generations. In short, this passage tells us that the Israelites were deeply troubled by the Amorites’ persistent attacks and that these attacks caused decades of hardship for them. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific part of the verse in more detail? Connect this story to other Bible stories or themes (like exile, oppression, or faith)?