This verse from Judith 7:10 highlights the psychological and strategic reliance of the Israelites on their mountainous terrain for defense, rather than on their military prowess or weaponry. Let's break down the meaning:
"For this people of the children of Israel do not trust in their spears...": This directly states the Israelites lack confidence in their military strength, specifically their weaponry (spears being representative of their arms). This suggests a perceived or real weakness in their armed forces. They may be outnumbered, poorly equipped, or simply lacking in military experience.
"...but in the height of the mountains wherein they dwell...": This contrasts the lack of trust in their weapons by asserting that the Israelites place their faith in the natural defenses of their mountainous homeland. The "height of the mountains" is not just a physical feature, but a symbol of security and inaccessibility.
"...for it is not easy to come up to the tops of their mountains.": This explains why they trust in the mountains. The difficult terrain makes it challenging for enemies to attack. The steep climbs, narrow passes, and potential for ambushes create a natural barrier, making any invasion arduous and risky.
In essence, the verse means:
The Israelites are not relying on their military strength or weapons for defense. Instead, they are placing their trust in the fact that their mountainous territory makes it difficult for enemies to reach them and conquer their cities. The mountains are their natural fortress, offering protection that their own army cannot provide. This verse sets the stage for how Judith will need to overcome both the enemy and the perceived vulnerability of her people.
This verse from Judith 7:10 highlights the psychological and strategic reliance of the Israelites on their mountainous terrain for defense, rather than on their military prowess or weaponry. Let's break down the meaning:
"For this people of the children of Israel do not trust in their spears...": This directly states the Israelites lack confidence in their military strength, specifically their weaponry (spears being representative of their arms). This suggests a perceived or real weakness in their armed forces. They may be outnumbered, poorly equipped, or simply lacking in military experience.
"...but in the height of the mountains wherein they dwell...": This contrasts the lack of trust in their weapons by asserting that the Israelites place their faith in the natural defenses of their mountainous homeland. The "height of the mountains" is not just a physical feature, but a symbol of security and inaccessibility.
"...for it is not easy to come up to the tops of their mountains.": This explains why they trust in the mountains. The difficult terrain makes it challenging for enemies to attack. The steep climbs, narrow passes, and potential for ambushes create a natural barrier, making any invasion arduous and risky.
In essence, the verse means:
The Israelites are not relying on their military strength or weapons for defense. Instead, they are placing their trust in the fact that their mountainous territory makes it difficult for enemies to reach them and conquer their cities. The mountains are their natural fortress, offering protection that their own army cannot provide. This verse sets the stage for how Judith will need to overcome both the enemy and the perceived vulnerability of her people.
