Definition: Now the name of the Israelite that was slain, [even] that was slain with the Midianitish woman, [was] Zimri, the son of Salu, a prince of a chief house among the Simeonites.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 25:14. It’s a really important and somewhat unsettling part of biblical history. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: A Prince Dies: The verse tells us about the death of a prince named Zimri. Caught in a Raid: He was killed during a raid by the Midianitish people – that’s a group of Israelites who were allied with the worshipers of the sun god, Set. A Victim of Betrayal: The Midianitish people attacked and killed him while he was traveling or in a position of power. Putting it Together - The Key Points: This verse highlights a significant moment of betrayal and disaster. It’s a story about: Political Conflict: This event happened during a time of intense political tension between Israel and the Midianitish people. Loss of Leadership: Zimri was a prince, a leader within the kingdom of Israel. His death disrupted the order and stability of his people. A Turning Point: The story doesn’t end with the death itself; it sets the stage for further conflict and challenges to the throne. Important Note: The verse is somewhat vague about why this happened. It’s a moment of tragedy, but the exact reason behind Zimri's death isn’t fully explained. In short, this verse describes a tragic death connected to a conflict between Israel and a neighboring group, leading to further challenges for the kingdom. --- Do you have any specific questions about this verse that you’d like me to answer? For example, would you like to know: Why is this story significant in biblical history? What does it tell us about leadership and power?