Definition: Thus Edom refused to give Israel passage through his border: wherefore Israel turned away from him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 20:21. It’s a really important and somewhat dramatic part of the story of the Israelites and their relationship with the Philistines. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Situation: Edom is Blocking Israel: The verse describes Edom, a powerful tribe in the east, deliberately refusing to allow Israel to pass through their territory. Edom Refuses Passage: They actively choose not to let Israel go. This suggests they’re purposefully trying to hinder Israel's progress and potentially cause conflict. Israel Turns Away: The key part is that Israel reacts . They feel betrayed or angry, and they decide to turn away from Edom. What it's about – A Bit of Storytelling: This story happened after the Israelites had been conquered by the Philistines. The Philistines were a powerful people, and they were determined to control all the land. Edom, who was very wealthy and influential in the east, felt threatened by Israel’s growing power and independence. Why is it significant? This event highlights several important themes: Disrespect & Betrayal: It shows that Edom wasn't just being stubborn; they were actively trying to cause trouble for Israel. Divine Justice: The verse points to a larger, divine plan. It suggests that God is testing and punishing those who resist His will. It’s a reminder that disobedience can have consequences. Israel’s Response: The fact that Israel turned away shows their faith and perhaps a willingness to accept God's judgment. In short, this verse tells us that Edom was deliberately trying to make life difficult for Israel, and Israel responded with rejection, signifying a turning point in the conflict. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the story? Give you a more detailed explanation of a specific element (like the context of the story)?