Definition: And they journeyed from mount Hor by the way of the Red sea, to compass the land of Edom: and the soul of the people was much discouraged because of the way.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse together. It's a really powerful passage about a huge battle and its impact on the Israelites. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: The Israelites Were Lost: The story begins when the Israelites were lost and wandering in the wilderness, facing a difficult situation. They Travelled to Edom: They decided to travel further north, towards the land of Edom, which is a bit distant. A Huge Battle: They had a very intense battle against the Edomites (a group of people who were enemies of Israel). It was a massive and difficult fight. The People Were Discouraged: Because of this battle, the Israelites felt deeply sad and disheartened – their spirits were low. What it’s saying about the Soul: The phrase “the soul of the people was much discouraged” is really important. It means that the Israelites weren't just feeling sad; they were deeply troubled and hopeless. Their faith, hope, and courage were shaken by the battle. In a nutshell, it’s a story about a difficult experience leading to a loss of faith. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a foreshadowing of future suffering and challenges for the Israelites. It's a reminder that even in times of hardship, it's important to hold onto hope and faith. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of the story in more detail? Discuss the context of this verse within the larger narrative of the Old Testament? Talk about its symbolism or meaning beyond a simple retelling of events?