Definition: And Bethnimrah, and Bethharan, fenced cities: and folds for sheep.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from Numbers 32:36 together. It’s a really interesting and somewhat mysterious part of the Bible! Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a specific type of defensive structure built by God for his people – the Israelites – in the wilderness. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Numbers 32” : This refers to a particular story that happened during the time Moses was leading the Israelites out of Egypt. It’s a story about a woman named Bethnimrah and her husband, Bethharan. “Bethnimrah, and Bethharan, fenced cities” : This means they built a wall or fence around a specific area – a city, or perhaps a settlement – to protect it from enemies. They created a perimeter. “folds for sheep” : This is the really key part! The “folds” refer to sheep pens . These pens weren’t just for animals; they were designed to contain and protect the Israelites' livestock. It symbolizes the protection of their people. So, what does it all mean? The story suggests a deliberate strategy to keep the Israelites safe and secure while they wandered through the wilderness. It shows God prioritizing the well-being of his people by providing physical protections for them. Why is this important? This verse speaks to several themes in the Bible: God’s Protection: It highlights God's care and concern for his people. Defense & Security: It demonstrates a proactive approach to safeguarding those under His protection. Care & Provision: The “folds for sheep” represent careful planning and providing for the needs of the community. In short, it’s a story about God protecting his people by building a safe place for them to live. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Numbers 32? Discuss the overall context of this passage within the larger narrative of the Exodus and the wilderness journey?