And they encamped against them, and destroyed the increase of the earth, till thou come unto Gaza, and left no sustenance for Israel, neither sheep, nor ox, nor ass.
They set up camp and attacked them, destroying all the crops and produce of the land all the way to Gaza. They left no food for Israel—no sheep, cattle, or donkeys.
The writer is describing how enemy forces completely destroyed Israel's food supply and livestock, leaving them with nothing to survive on.
📚 Historical Context
This verse describes the devastating raids by the Midianites and other eastern tribes against Israel during the period of the judges (around 1200-1000 BC). These nomadic peoples would sweep through Israel's farmland during harvest time, destroying crops and stealing livestock, leaving the Israelites in poverty and hunger. This was part of God's judgment on Israel for turning away from Him and worshiping other gods.
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