Definition: [Now] as they were making their hearts merry, behold, the men of the city, certain sons of Belial, beset the house round about, [and] beat at the door, and spake to the master of the house, the old man, saying, Bring forth the man that came into thine house, that we may know him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 19:22. It's a pretty intense scene – it describes a violent attack on a home! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: A Group of People are Angry: The story begins with a group of men, identified as "sons of Belial," who are intensely angry. They're making merry - meaning they’re enjoying themselves – but their anger is directed towards someone and something. They Attack the House: They start attacking the house, deliberately trying to get into it. They Demand a “Man” Come In: They then ask the master of the house (an old man) to bring him inside. This isn't just a friendly invitation; they’re demanding he show them who this person is. Putting It All Together - A Possible Interpretation: This verse describes a brutal raid on a home. The men are likely trying to identify and potentially harm the old man, who was a figure of authority or perhaps someone important in the community. They're essentially trying to establish a connection with him through this demand for an introduction. Important Note: It’s crucial to understand that this story is rooted in a very dark and violent period in biblical history – the reign of the evil king Belial. This verse shows how even seemingly small acts of anger and malice can lead to terrible consequences. Essentially, it's a warning about the dangers of unchecked anger and the potential for violence when people are driven by spite. --- Do you want me to: Explain why this story is significant in biblical history? Discuss the context of the time period? Explore the themes of judgment or retribution within the verse?