Definition: And the priest’s heart was glad, and he took the ephod, and the teraphim, and the graven image, and went in the midst of the people.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 18:20. It's a really important and dramatic passage about God’s judgment and a shift in focus within the nation of Israel. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Situation: A Wicked Leader: The verse describes a situation where a leader, called the Priest, has been incredibly wicked – he's been causing great harm and trouble to the people. The Offering: He’s been offering sacrifices – specifically, a large, precious offering of meat (the ephod , which is like a large platter) and animals (the teraphim , which are symbolic animals representing the nation). This was a huge display of wealth and power, but it was all used to fuel his wickedness. The Priest’s Focus: The key here is that he's focused on these offerings . He’s completely consumed by them, prioritizing them above everything else. What Happened Next? A Shift in Priority: Suddenly, God decides the Priest's heart should be filled with joy and gratitude – not with fear or anxiety about his own life. The Offering is Presented: He takes these precious offerings (the ephod, teraphim, and graven image) and goes in the midst of the people . This means he's presenting them to the entire nation. What Does It Mean? God’s Justice: This verse is a powerful demonstration of God's justice. He’s not just punishing the Priest; he’s punishing all those who have been causing trouble and wickedness. A Turning Point: It signifies a shift in the focus of the nation. Instead of being worried about their own safety, they are now focused on praising and thanking God for his deliverance. It's a moment where God takes control and puts his people’s needs first . God’s Love: The verse also speaks to God's love for his people. He is choosing to rejoice in the good news of their freedom and safety. In short, this verse describes a pivotal moment when God chooses to prioritize joy and gratitude over fear and anxiety, demonstrating his ultimate justice and loving concern for his people. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the story from Judges 18? Discuss the symbolism behind the offering?