Definition: Come now therefore, I pray thee, curse me this people; for they [are] too mighty for me: peradventure I shall prevail, [that] we may smite them, and [that] I may drive them out of the land: for I wot that he whom thou blessest [is] blessed, and he whom thou cursest is cursed.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 22:6. It’s a really intense and dramatic passage from the Book of Judges in the Bible. Here's what it’s saying, explained in simple terms: The Core Situation: God is facing a serious problem – a people (the Israelites) are becoming too powerful and threatening to the land He has given them. They’re growing so strong that they’re challenging God’s authority. What the Verse Says - A Plea for Revenge: “Come now therefore, I pray thee, curse me this people…” – This is a direct plea from God to the Israelite leader, Gideon, to take action. He's asking him to actively try to harm these people. “…for they [are] too mighty for me: peradventure I shall prevail, that we may smite them, and that [that] I may drive them out of the land.” – This is the heart of the verse. Gideon is arguing that he could win against these people if he took action. He's suggesting a plan to defeat them. “Peradventure” means “perhaps” – it’s a cautious, almost desperate plea. “For I wot that he whom thou blessest [is] blessed, and he whom thou cursest [is] cursed.” – This is the most important part. Gideon is saying that anyone who is blessed by God (like someone who does good) will be blessed too. And anyone who curses God or his people will be cursed. It’s a powerful statement about divine justice and consequences. What it Means – The Big Picture: This verse highlights several themes: God's Protection: It shows that God is actively intervening to protect His people from a threat. Justice: It speaks of righteous anger against those who are defying God’s will. Consequences: It illustrates the idea that actions have consequences – both for those who bless and curse, and for those who challenge God's authority. Important Context (Briefly): Gideon was a military leader who was tasked with attacking a giant Goliath. The verse describes him being tricked into a situation where he had to offer a terrible sacrifice to appease the giant. It’s a story of divine intervention and a test of faith. In essence, this verse is a dramatic warning about the dangers of resisting God's authority and emphasizes that those who defy Him will face consequences. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part in more detail? Connect this verse to other biblical stories or themes? Discuss the symbolism behind it (like the "giant" representing evil)?