And the Philistines put themselves in array against Israel: and when they joined battle, Israel was smitten before the Philistines: and they slew of the army in the field about four thousand men.
The Philistines lined up their army to fight against Israel. When the battle began, Israel was defeated by the Philistines, who killed about four thousand Israelite soldiers on the battlefield.
This verse describes Israel suffering a devastating military defeat, losing four thousand men to their enemies the Philistines.
📚 Historical Context
During the period of the judges in ancient Israel, the Philistines were a persistent enemy who had settled along the coastal regions and frequently battled the Israelites for control of the land. In this specific event from 1 Samuel, the Israelites engaged in a direct confrontation with the Philistines, resulting in a crushing defeat where about four thousand Israelite soldiers were killed, highlighting the ongoing struggles and the need for divine guidance. This battle was part of a larger narrative that exposed Israel's reliance on human efforts rather than God.
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