Definition: And when they told [it] to Jotham, he went and stood in the top of mount Gerizim, and lifted up his voice, and cried, and said unto them, Hearken unto me, ye men of Shechem, that God may hearken unto you.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 9:7. It’s a really important and somewhat dramatic passage about justice and the consequences of wrongdoing. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: Shechem was involved in a terrible thing: The text describes Shechem, a ruler of a city called Shechem, as having committed a significant act of desecration – essentially, he had violated God’s laws and the rules for his people. It’s described as “a great transgression” (Judges 9:7). He was told to do something…and then he did it in a way that angered God. The verse says he went to a high place, Gerizim, and cried out. This is the key part – he was actively defying God's authority. What’s Happening? A Plea for Justice: Shechem was essentially begging God to hear him. He was asking for forgiveness and urging God to intervene in his actions. God’s Response - A Harsh One: The verse says that when he cried, God answered him. This is a crucial point – God isn't just passively allowing things to happen; He actively judges and punishes those who disobey Him. Putting it Together – The Meaning Essentially, this verse describes a moment of intense conflict between Shechem and God. His actions were so wrong that they angered the divine authority, leading to God’s direct intervention in his downfall. It’s a powerful message about the importance of obedience and the consequences of disobedience. Important Context (Briefly): This passage appears in the Old Testament and is part of a larger story about the rebuilding of Jerusalem after its destruction during the Babylonian exile. It highlights the need for repentance and a return to God’s law. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the significance of this passage in a specific context (like the rebuilding of Jerusalem)?