Definition: [And] when they [were] by Jebus, the day was far spent; and the servant said unto his master, Come, I pray thee, and let us turn in into this city of the Jebusites, and lodge in it.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Judges 19:11. It’s a really important and somewhat unsettling passage about a devastating event. Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Story: A Group of People are Being Harassed: The story begins with a group of people – likely Israelites – being harassed and oppressed by a powerful, mysterious force. They're essentially being treated unfairly. They Seek Refuge in a Specific Place: Driven to desperation, they decide to seek refuge with a group called the Jebusites. This group is described as being located near the "Jebus" – which is a tricky word. It’s likely referring to a place of worship or a significant religious center. They Request a Safe Place: The leader of these people asks the Jebusites to let them stay in their city. They want a secure and comfortable place to live, away from the ongoing trouble. What it Means – A Bit More Context: “By Jebus” - The Key Word: This is where it gets interesting. “Jebus” isn't just a name; it’s a term of reverence in ancient Israel. It means "the Lord" or “God.” The group was essentially pleading with God to protect them from further harm. “Far Spent” - A Time of Darkness: The verse says the day was "far spent." This suggests that the situation had been going on for a long time, possibly weeks or months. It implies a period of intense hardship and suffering. "The Servant Said..." - A Plea from the Leader: The leader of these people is essentially pleading with God to intervene and protect them. He’s recognizing the Lord’s power and seeking divine assistance. Overall Interpretation (Simplified): This verse paints a picture of intense oppression and desperation. It suggests that the people were facing severe challenges, possibly due to a powerful force or deity, and they are desperately seeking help and safety from a specific religious community. It highlights the importance of prayer and seeking divine protection during times of trouble. Important Note: The exact nature of this "powerful force" is left open to interpretation. It’s often seen as a symbolic representation of evil or oppression that was causing harm to the Israelites. --- Do you want me to delve deeper into any aspect of this verse? For example, would you like to know: More about the Jebusites? The symbolism behind "Jebus"? How this story relates to other biblical narratives?