Judges 18:20

French (La Sainte Bible par Louis Segond 1910)

Le prêtre éprouva de la joie dans son coeur; il prit l'éphod, les théraphim, et l'image taillée, et se joignit à la troupe.

What Does This Mean?

This verse describes a priest who was happy to take religious items like the ephod, teraphim, and graven image, and then went with a group of people. There is no dialogue in this verse, but it shows the priest's willingness to join the people and take these sacred items with him.

Explained for Children

Imagine if a teacher was really excited to take their favorite books and toys to a new school with a group of friends. That's kind of like what this priest did with special religious items when he went with a group of people.

Historical Background

The Book of Judges was written by various authors over time, possibly under the guidance of the prophet Samuel. It was written around the 12th to 10th centuries BCE and tells the stories of Israel's judges, including episodes like the one described here, where religious artifacts are taken and moved by a priest.

Living It Out Today

Today, this verse can remind us about the importance of holding onto our values and beliefs even when we move or change circumstances. Like the priest who took the religious items with him, we too should carry our principles with us wherever we go.

Topics

• faith
• migration
• sacred objects
• community
• spiritual leadership
• values

Related Verses

• Exodus 28:6-12
• 1 Samuel 23:9
• 1 Kings 12:28
• Hosea 3:4
• Acts 19:13

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ephod mentioned in Judges 18:20?

The ephod was a special garment worn by priests in ancient Israel, often associated with divination or seeking guidance from God.

Why did the priest take the teraphim?

The teraphim were household idols used for divination and family protection. The priest may have taken them to maintain his authority or to use them for spiritual guidance.

What does this verse tell us about the religious practices of the time?

This verse indicates that the use of sacred objects like the ephod and teraphim was a common practice, and that these items were highly valued for their religious significance.

How can this verse be relevant to someone today?

This verse can remind us to hold onto our core beliefs and values, much like the priest holding onto the sacred items, even when we are in new or challenging situations.