Norwegian 2018 (Bibelen - Guds Ord Hverdagsbibelen (Hermon Forlag))
Gedalja snakket med dem og sverget på at de ikke hadde noe å frykte: «Frykt ikke for kaldeerne! Bo i landet og tjen kongen i Babel, så skal det gå dere godt.» Men i den sjuende måneden kom Ismael. Han var av kongelig slekt, for han var sønn av Netanja, som igjen var sønn av Elisjama. Ismael kom med ti menn og drepte Gedalja og jødene og kaldeerne som var sammen med ham i Mispa. Da la hele folket på flukt, både små og store. Også hærførerne dro av sted til Egypt, for de fryktet for kaldeerne.
What Does This Mean?
In this verse, Gedaliah reassures the people and their soldiers that it is safe to stay in the land and serve the Chaldeans. He promises them that if they do so, they will be treated well by the king of Babylon. This is an assurance given during a time of transition and uncertainty.
Explained for Children
Imagine you're playing in a big sandbox and suddenly some new kids come and take over. Gedaliah, like a friendly teacher, tells everyone it's okay to keep playing in the sandbox if they follow the new kids' rules. He promises that if they do, they'll have a good time.
Historical Background
This verse is part of the Book of 2 Kings, written by the prophets under divine inspiration. It was written during the period of the Babylonian exile, around the 6th century BCE. The audience was the Israelites who were conquered and living under Babylonian rule, and the cultural setting was one of fear and uncertainty about their future.
Living It Out Today
In modern times, this verse can be applied to situations where one might feel threatened or uncertain about following new rules or authorities. Like Gedaliah’s reassurance, it reminds us that sometimes, following the guidelines set by those in power can lead to peace and safety.