Definition: In those days [there was] no king in Israel: every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 21:25. It’s a really important and somewhat unsettling passage about leadership and responsibility. Here's a simple explanation: The Core Idea: This verse says that in the days of ancient Israel, there was no king in their nation. And what happened is, everyone was doing whatever they thought was right – often without any rules or authority. It’s like a chaotic, self-serving leadership situation. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “In those days…” : This sets the historical context—it’s referring to a specific period in Israel’s history, likely during a time of conflict or instability. “…there was” : It means that this wasn't just a temporary situation; it was a long-standing pattern. “no king in Israel” : This is the key part. The verse explicitly states there was no king ruling over Israel. Before this, there was a system of leadership, but it was completely lacking a single, authoritative figure. “every man did that which was right in his own eyes” : This is where it gets interesting. It means that people were acting on their own judgment and desires – they were making decisions without regard for laws or established rules. They weren't following a moral code or being accountable to someone else. What does this mean practically? This verse suggests a period of great instability, perhaps with frequent conflicts and disputes because there was no one to guide them. It’s a warning about the dangers of: Selfishness: Acting solely for personal benefit without considering the needs or well-being of others. Lack of Accountability: No one being held responsible for their actions. Chaos and Disorder: A society where decisions are made randomly and without principles. Why is this a significant verse? It’s often seen as a foreshadowing of the chaos that would follow Israel's exile in the Book of Exile (the period after they left the land). It highlights the need for wise, ethical leadership to maintain order and stability. It also speaks to the importance of God’s guidance and establishing clear rules for behavior. In short: The verse describes a time where people were making decisions independently without any established authority or moral compass, leading to conflict and instability. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you more context about the history of this period in Israel's history?