Definition: That through them I may prove Israel, whether they will keep the way of the LORD to walk therein, as their fathers did keep [it], or not.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 2:22. It’s a really important and somewhat complex passage about God’s testing of Israel. Here's what it means in plain language: The Core Idea: God is deliberately trying to see if Israel will stay true to his laws (the “way of the LORD”) or not. He wants to know if they’ll follow his instructions diligently, just like their ancestors did. Let's unpack each part: "That through them I may prove Israel..." – This is God’s way of testing Israel. He’s using them as a test to see how they respond to him and his guidance. "...whether they will keep the way of the LORD to walk therein, as their fathers did keep [it], or not." - This is the crucial part. "Keep the way of the LORD" : This refers to following God’s laws and principles – his commandments and ways of behaving. It's about obeying divine guidance. "...as their fathers did keep [it]" : The verse compares Israel’s past faithfulness to their ancestors’ unwavering adherence to God’s rules. It’s saying they should be following this path, just like they did before. "...or not" : This is the question: Will they continue in this way, or will they stray from it? What does this mean practically? It suggests that God isn't just testing Israel’s obedience; He's testing their character . He wants to see if they will remain faithful and obedient to his will, even when things are difficult. Historical Context: This verse appears in the Book of Judges. It’s often interpreted as a period where Israel was facing serious challenges and turning away from God – a time of moral decline. It's a call for repentance and a reminder that staying true to God is essential for their survival and prosperity. In short, it’s a test of faith and obedience. --- Would you like me to: Explain another part of the verse in more detail? Give an example of how this verse might be interpreted in modern times?