Judges 18:8 - They came to their brothers at Zorah and Eshtaol; and their brothers asked them, “What do you say?”

Generated Verse: Judges 18:8

What does "Judges 18:8" mean?


This verse from Judges 18:8 is a brief but significant part of the story of the tribe of Dan searching for new territory to settle. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:

"They came to their brothers at Zorah and Eshtaol": This refers to the five men of the tribe of Dan who were sent out as scouts (mentioned in earlier verses). They have completed their reconnaissance mission and are returning to their base camp, located at the cities of Zorah and Eshtaol. These cities were the original inheritance of the Danites but were proving difficult to hold against the Philistines.

"and their brothers asked them, 'What do you say?'": This is a direct question from the rest of the Danite fighting men back at Zorah and Eshtaol. They are eager to hear the report from the scouts. "What do you say?" is essentially asking:
"What did you find?"
"Is there a suitable place for us to relocate?"
"What are your recommendations?"
"Is it worth the risk to move?"

In essence, the verse is a moment of anticipation and transition in the story. The scouts have information that will determine the course of action for the entire tribe. The Danites are waiting anxiously to hear whether their scouts have found a more promising land for them to inhabit. The next verses will reveal the scouts' report, which will lead to the Danites deciding to move to Laish and conquer it.

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