This verse from Judith 5:22 describes a pivotal moment in the narrative, highlighting the reaction to Achior's speech. Let's break it down:
"It came to pass, when Achior had finished speaking these words...": This is a common biblical phrase introducing a consequence or reaction to what was previously stated. It signals that Achior's words had an immediate and significant impact.
"...all the people standing around the tent murmured.": Achior, an Ammonite leader, has just delivered a detailed historical and theological explanation of the Israelites' resilience, arguing that they are only vulnerable if they sin against their God. The "murmuring" indicates a general unease and disagreement among those listening. They are likely questioning Achior's assessment and its implications for their planned attack.
"The great men of Holofernes, and all that lived by the sea side and in Moab, said that he should kill him.": This specifies the source of the strongest opposition. Holofernes' high-ranking officers, along with the people from the coastal regions and Moab (who would be allies or subjects of Holofernes), were outraged by Achior's words. They believe Achior's speech is dangerous, undermining the army's confidence and potentially revealing weakness to the Israelites. Calling for his death is their way of silencing dissent and reaffirming their resolve to conquer. They see Achior as a traitor or a threat to their war effort.
In essence, the verse means:
Achior's speech, which explained the Israelites' strength as being contingent on their faithfulness to God, caused a stir and unease amongst the people in Holofernes' camp. The leaders and allies of Holofernes, particularly, took great offense to Achior's words and demanded that Holofernes execute him for undermining their mission and potentially siding with the Israelites.
This verse is important because it:
Highlights the conflict: It establishes a direct conflict between Achior's perspective and the aggressive intentions of Holofernes and his forces.
Sets the stage for future events: It foreshadows the dangers Achior faces for speaking the truth and Holofernes' ruthless nature. This eventually leads to Achior being handed over to the Israelites, which is crucial to Judith's plan.
Emphasizes the theme of faith: The story underscores the power of faith (or lack thereof) and its impact on success or failure in the face of adversity.
This verse from Judith 5:22 describes a pivotal moment in the narrative, highlighting the reaction to Achior's speech. Let's break it down:
"It came to pass, when Achior had finished speaking these words...": This is a common biblical phrase introducing a consequence or reaction to what was previously stated. It signals that Achior's words had an immediate and significant impact.
"...all the people standing around the tent murmured.": Achior, an Ammonite leader, has just delivered a detailed historical and theological explanation of the Israelites' resilience, arguing that they are only vulnerable if they sin against their God. The "murmuring" indicates a general unease and disagreement among those listening. They are likely questioning Achior's assessment and its implications for their planned attack.
"The great men of Holofernes, and all that lived by the sea side and in Moab, said that he should kill him.": This specifies the source of the strongest opposition. Holofernes' high-ranking officers, along with the people from the coastal regions and Moab (who would be allies or subjects of Holofernes), were outraged by Achior's words. They believe Achior's speech is dangerous, undermining the army's confidence and potentially revealing weakness to the Israelites. Calling for his death is their way of silencing dissent and reaffirming their resolve to conquer. They see Achior as a traitor or a threat to their war effort.
In essence, the verse means:
Achior's speech, which explained the Israelites' strength as being contingent on their faithfulness to God, caused a stir and unease amongst the people in Holofernes' camp. The leaders and allies of Holofernes, particularly, took great offense to Achior's words and demanded that Holofernes execute him for undermining their mission and potentially siding with the Israelites.
This verse is important because it:
Highlights the conflict: It establishes a direct conflict between Achior's perspective and the aggressive intentions of Holofernes and his forces.
Sets the stage for future events: It foreshadows the dangers Achior faces for speaking the truth and Holofernes' ruthless nature. This eventually leads to Achior being handed over to the Israelites, which is crucial to Judith's plan.
Emphasizes the theme of faith: The story underscores the power of faith (or lack thereof) and its impact on success or failure in the face of adversity.
