5-8 Přes všechno, čím se Benjamínovci provinili, se nyní ostatní Izraelci nad jejich smutným koncem rmoutili a ptali se sami sebe: "Téměř jsme ztratili jeden ze svých kmenů. Jak to nyní uděláme, aby benjamínovští muži nevymřeli? Kde pro ně máme vzít manželky? Přísahali jsme přece, že nikdo z nás za ně své dcery neprovdá." Brzy se však v jejich hlavách zrodil nápad. Kromě přísahy o zákazu manželství jejich dcer s Benjamínovci totiž v Mispě složili ještě jednu přísahu, podle které se zavázali usmrtit příslušníky toho izraelského kmene, který se nezúčastnil shromáždění před Hospodinem. Vznesli tedy otázku: "Je mezi izraelskými kmeny někdo, kdo se nedostavil na shromáždění k Hospodinu do Mispy?"
What Does This Mean?
Joshua is telling the Israelites to be careful to follow God's laws, which were given by Moses. The key message is to love God, follow His ways, and serve Him wholeheartedly.
Explained for Children
Imagine you have a best friend who always gives you the best advice. Joshua is telling the Israelites to listen carefully to their best friend, God, and follow all the good advice He gives, like how to be kind and how to show love to others.
Historical Background
Joshua 22:5 is part of the Book of Joshua, written by Joshua around 1400-1380 BC. The audience is the Israelites, a community of people who were about to settle in the Promised Land. The cultural setting was one of transition from wilderness wandering to settled life.
Living It Out Today
In modern times, this verse can apply to a scenario where a person is starting a new job and needs to follow the company's rules and values. Just as the Israelites were to follow God's laws, a new employee should diligently follow the company's guidelines and work with dedication.
Joshua is speaking to the Israelites, reminding them of their duty to follow God's laws and to love God.
What does it mean to 'cleave unto him'?
To 'cleave unto him' means to stick closely to God, being faithful and devoted in every aspect of life.
How does this verse relate to the law?
This verse emphasizes the importance of following the commandments given by Moses, which are part of God's law, and encourages loving God as a response to His commands.
What does it mean to serve God with all your heart and soul?
Serving God with all your heart and soul means dedicating every aspect of your life to Him, showing complete devotion and commitment in your thoughts, actions, and emotions.