Definition: And the anger of the LORD was hot against Israel, and he delivered them into the hands of spoilers that spoiled them, and he sold them into the hands of their enemies round about, so that they could not any longer stand before their enemies.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 2:14. It’s a really important passage about a period of intense suffering and division in Israel's history. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Story: Israel is Facing a Problem: The verse sets the stage for a time when Israel was experiencing serious trouble, being pushed to the edge. The LORD is Furious: God is deeply angered by Israel’s behavior. He's not just annoyed; he's actively punishing them. Spoilers and Enemies Steal Their Spirit: The "spoilers" are people who were encouraging and even facilitating Israel’s problems – they were essentially stealing their spirit, their hope, and their ability to stand up for themselves. They were acting like a poison, weakening them from the inside. Selling Them into Enemy Hands: This is the crucial part. The spoilers weren't just hindering Israel; they were actively selling them off to enemies. This meant that Israel was being divided and weakened by its own problems, making it vulnerable to attack. What It Means – A Broader Perspective: This verse speaks to a pattern of betrayal and exploitation. It’s about: Division: The spoilers were exploiting Israel's weaknesses and vulnerabilities for their own gain. Loss of Identity: They were taking away Israel’s spiritual strength and ability to defend itself. Vulnerability: By selling them off, they made Israel increasingly susceptible to external forces – enemies who could exploit their weakened state. In short, it's a story about God punishing those who actively undermine his people. Important Note: This is a difficult passage to understand because it describes a period of intense suffering and injustice. It highlights the dangers of division and encourages us to be wary of those who seek to exploit others. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context behind this story in more detail (like why it happened)? Connect this passage to a broader theme in the Bible (like justice, forgiveness, or leadership)?