Judith 13:17 describes the reaction of the people of Bethulia after Judith returns with the head of Holofernes, the Assyrian general who had been besieging their city. Let's break down the meaning of the verse:
"All the people were exceedingly amazed..." This sets the scene. Their astonishment stems from the incredible, almost unbelievable, act Judith has performed. They were likely facing imminent death or enslavement, and Judith, a woman, had single-handedly defeated their seemingly invincible enemy.
"...and bowed themselves, and worshipped God..." Their amazement leads them to worship. They recognize that Judith's victory is not just due to her courage and cunning, but also to divine intervention. Bowing is a sign of reverence and submission to God.
"...and said with one accord, “Blessed are you, O our God, which have this day brought to nothing the enemies of your people.”" The phrase "with one accord" indicates a unified, heartfelt expression from the entire community. Their blessing to God acknowledges that He is the source of their deliverance. The phrase "brought to nothing the enemies of your people" highlights the complete and decisive nature of the victory. They see the defeat of Holofernes as a demonstration of God's power and favor towards them. In essence, they're praising God for protecting and saving them from destruction by their enemies.
In Summary:
The verse signifies a moment of profound religious experience for the people of Bethulia. They recognize Judith's victory as a miracle brought about by God. Their reaction of amazement, worship, and unified praise underscores their faith in God's power to protect His people and deliver them from their enemies. It's a testament to their belief that God is on their side and will intervene on their behalf. It also implicitly praises Judith as a tool of God.
Judith 13:17 describes the reaction of the people of Bethulia after Judith returns with the head of Holofernes, the Assyrian general who had been besieging their city. Let's break down the meaning of the verse:
"All the people were exceedingly amazed..." This sets the scene. Their astonishment stems from the incredible, almost unbelievable, act Judith has performed. They were likely facing imminent death or enslavement, and Judith, a woman, had single-handedly defeated their seemingly invincible enemy.
"...and bowed themselves, and worshipped God..." Their amazement leads them to worship. They recognize that Judith's victory is not just due to her courage and cunning, but also to divine intervention. Bowing is a sign of reverence and submission to God.
"...and said with one accord, “Blessed are you, O our God, which have this day brought to nothing the enemies of your people.”" The phrase "with one accord" indicates a unified, heartfelt expression from the entire community. Their blessing to God acknowledges that He is the source of their deliverance. The phrase "brought to nothing the enemies of your people" highlights the complete and decisive nature of the victory. They see the defeat of Holofernes as a demonstration of God's power and favor towards them. In essence, they're praising God for protecting and saving them from destruction by their enemies.
In Summary:
The verse signifies a moment of profound religious experience for the people of Bethulia. They recognize Judith's victory as a miracle brought about by God. Their reaction of amazement, worship, and unified praise underscores their faith in God's power to protect His people and deliver them from their enemies. It's a testament to their belief that God is on their side and will intervene on their behalf. It also implicitly praises Judith as a tool of God.
