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Judges 18:17

Judges 18:17 in Multiple Translations

And the five men who had gone to spy out the land went inside and took the graven image, the ephod, the household idols, and the molten idol, while the priest stood at the entrance of the gate with the six hundred armed men.

And the five men that went to spy out the land went up, and came in thither, and took the graven image, and the ephod, and the teraphim, and the molten image: and the priest stood in the entering of the gate with the six hundred men that were appointed with weapons of war.

And the five men that went to spy out the land went up, and came in thither, and took the graven image, and the ephod, and the teraphim, and the molten image: and the priest stood by the entrance of the gate with the six hundred men girt with weapons of war.

Then the five men who had gone to make a search through the land, went in and took the pictured image and the ephod and the family gods and the metal image; and the priest was by the doorway with the six hundred armed men.

The five men went inside and took the carved idol, the ephod, the household idols, and the image made with molten silver. The priest was standing by the gate with the six hundred armed men.

Then the fiue men that went to spie out the land, went in thither, and tooke the grauen image and the Ephod, and the Teraphim, and the molten image: and the Priest stoode in the entring of the gate with the sixe hundreth men, that were appointed with weapons of warre,

yea, the five men, those going to traverse the land, go up — they have come in thither — they have taken the graven image, and the ephod, and the teraphim, and the molten image — and the priest is standing at the opening of the gate, and the six hundred men who are girded with weapons of war —

The five men who went to spy out the land went up, and came in there, and took the engraved image, the ephod, the teraphim, and the molten image; and the priest stood by the entrance of the gate with the six hundred men armed with weapons of war.

And the five men that went to explore the land went up, and came in thither, and took the graven image, and the ephod, and the teraphim, and the molten image: and the priest stood in the entrance of the gate with the six hundred men that were appointed with weapons of war.

But they that were gone into the house of the young man, went about to take away the graven god, and the ephod, and the theraphim, and the molten god, and the priest stood before the door, the six hundred valiant men waiting not far off.

The five men who had explored the land went into Micah’s house, and took all the idols, the sacred vest, and the statue. While they did that, the 600 men stood outside the gate, talking with the priest.

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Berean Amplified Bible — Judges 18:17

BAB
Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

Judges 18:17 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB
HEB וַֽ/יַּעֲל֞וּ חֲמֵ֣שֶׁת הָ/אֲנָשִׁ֗ים הַ/הֹלְכִים֮ לְ/רַגֵּ֣ל אֶת הָ/אָרֶץ֒ בָּ֣אוּ שָׁ֔מָּ/ה לָקְח֗וּ אֶת הַ/פֶּ֨סֶל֙ וְ/אֶת הָ֣/אֵפ֔וֹד וְ/אֶת הַ/תְּרָפִ֖ים וְ/אֶת הַ/מַּסֵּכָ֑ה וְ/הַ/כֹּהֵ֗ן נִצָּב֙ פֶּ֣תַח הַ/שַּׁ֔עַר וְ/שֵׁשׁ מֵא֣וֹת הָ/אִ֔ישׁ הֶ/חָג֖וּר כְּלֵ֥י הַ/מִּלְחָמָֽה
וַֽ/יַּעֲל֞וּ ʻâlâh H5927 to ascend Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp
חֲמֵ֣שֶׁת châmêsh H2568 five Adj
הָ/אֲנָשִׁ֗ים ʼîysh H376 man Art | N-mp
הַ/הֹלְכִים֮ hâlak H1980 to go Art | V-Qal
לְ/רַגֵּ֣ל râgal H7270 to spy Prep | V-Piel-Inf-a
אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM
הָ/אָרֶץ֒ ʼerets H776 land Art | N-cs
בָּ֣אוּ bôwʼ H935 Lebo V-Qal-Perf-3cp
שָׁ֔מָּ/ה shâm H8033 there Adv | Suff
לָקְח֗וּ lâqach H3947 to take V-Qal-Perf-3cp
אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM
הַ/פֶּ֨סֶל֙ pᵉçîyl H6456 idol Art | N-ms
וְ/אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. Conj | DirObjM
הָ֣/אֵפ֔וֹד ʼêphôwd H646 ephod Art | N-ms
וְ/אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. Conj | DirObjM
הַ/תְּרָפִ֖ים tᵉrâphîym H8655 teraphim Art | N-mp
וְ/אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. Conj | DirObjM
הַ/מַּסֵּכָ֑ה maççêkâh H4541 liquid Art | N-fs
וְ/הַ/כֹּהֵ֗ן kôhên H3548 priest Conj | Art | N-ms
נִצָּב֙ nâtsab H5324 to stand V-Niphal
פֶּ֣תַח pethach H6607 entrance N-ms
הַ/שַּׁ֔עַר shaʻar H8179 gate Art | N-ms
וְ/שֵׁשׁ shêsh H8337 six Conj | Adj
מֵא֣וֹת mêʼâh H3967 hundred Adj
הָ/אִ֔ישׁ ʼîysh H376 man Art | N-ms
הֶ/חָג֖וּר châgar H2296 to gird Art | V-Qal-Inf-c
כְּלֵ֥י kᵉlîy H3627 article/utensil N-mp
הַ/מִּלְחָמָֽה milchâmâh H4421 battle Art | N-fs
Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Judges 18:17

וַֽ/יַּעֲל֞וּ ʻâlâh H5927 "to ascend" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp
To ascend means to go up or rise, like the smoke from an altar going up to God, as described in many Bible passages, including Leviticus and Psalms.
Definition: : rise/go 1) to go up, ascend, climb 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go up, ascend 1a2) to meet, visit, follow, depart, withdraw, retreat 1a3) to go up, come up (of animals) 1a4) to spring up, grow, shoot forth (of vegetation) 1a5) to go up, go up over, rise (of natural phenomenon) 1a6) to come up (before God) 1a7) to go up, go up over, extend (of boundary) 1a8) to excel, be superior to 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be taken up, be brought up, be taken away 1b2) to take oneself away 1b3) to be exalted 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to bring up, cause to ascend or climb, cause to go up 1c2) to bring up, bring against, take away 1c3) to bring up, draw up, train 1c4) to cause to ascend 1c5) to rouse, stir up (mentally) 1c6) to offer, bring up (of gifts) 1c7) to exalt 1c8) to cause to ascend, offer 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be carried away, be led up 1d2) to be taken up into, be inserted in 1d3) to be offered 1e) (Hithpael) to lift oneself
Usage: Occurs in 817 OT verses. KJV: arise (up), (cause to) ascend up, at once, break (the day) (up), bring (up), (cause to) burn, carry up, cast up, [phrase] shew, climb (up), (cause to, make to) come (up), cut off, dawn, depart, exalt, excel, fall, fetch up, get up, (make to) go (away, up); grow (over) increase, lay, leap, levy, lift (self) up, light, (make) up, [idiom] mention, mount up, offer, make to pay, [phrase] perfect, prefer, put (on), raise, recover, restore, (make to) rise (up), scale, set (up), shoot forth (up), (begin to) spring (up), stir up, take away (up), work. See also: Genesis 2:6; Exodus 34:4; Joshua 7:6.
חֲמֵ֣שֶׁת châmêsh H2568 "five" Adj
This Hebrew word simply means the number five. It is used throughout the Bible to describe quantities of five, such as five loaves of bread in Matthew 14:17. It can also mean a multiple of five.
Definition: 1) five 1a) five (cardinal number) 1b) a multiple of five (with another number) 1c) fifth (ordinal number)
Usage: Occurs in 272 OT verses. KJV: fif(-teen), fifth, five ([idiom] apiece). See also: Genesis 5:6; Numbers 31:45; Ezra 2:66.
הָ/אֲנָשִׁ֗ים ʼîysh H376 "man" Art | N-mp
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
הַ/הֹלְכִים֮ hâlak H1980 "to go" Art | V-Qal
Means to walk or go, used in many different contexts in the Bible. It can describe physical movement, but also spiritual or emotional journeys. Appears in various forms, such as 'to go' or 'to walk'.
Definition: : walk/move 1) to go, walk, come 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go, walk, come, depart, proceed, move, go away 1a2) to die, live, manner of life (fig.) 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to walk 1b2) to walk (fig.) 1c) (Hithpael) 1c1) to traverse 1c2) to walk about 1d) (Niphal) to lead, bring, lead away, carry, cause to walk
Usage: Occurs in 473 OT verses. KJV: (all) along, apace, behave (self), come, (on) continually, be conversant, depart, [phrase] be eased, enter, exercise (self), [phrase] follow, forth, forward, get, go (about, abroad, along, away, forward, on, out, up and down), [phrase] greater, grow, be wont to haunt, lead, march, [idiom] more and more, move (self), needs, on, pass (away), be at the point, quite, run (along), [phrase] send, speedily, spread, still, surely, [phrase] tale-bearer, [phrase] travel(-ler), walk (abroad, on, to and fro, up and down, to places), wander, wax, (way-) faring man, [idiom] be weak, whirl. See also: Genesis 2:14; Judges 4:9; 1 Kings 13:12.
לְ/רַגֵּ֣ל râgal H7270 "to spy" Prep | V-Piel-Inf-a
This verb means to spy or explore a place, like Moses sending scouts to Canaan in Numbers 13:2. It can also mean to slander or gossip about someone, as warned against in Proverbs 11:13.
Definition: 1) to go on foot, spy out, foot it, go about, walk along, move the feet 1a) (Qal) to be a tale-bearer, slander, go about 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to slander 1b2) to go about as explorer, spy 1c) (Tiphel) to teach to walk Also means: tir.gal (תִּרְגַּל "to teach" H8637)
Usage: Occurs in 24 OT verses. KJV: backbite, search, slander, (e-) spy (out), teach to go, view. See also: Genesis 42:9; Joshua 6:25; Psalms 15:3.
אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
הָ/אָרֶץ֒ ʼerets H776 "land" Art | N-cs
The land or earth refers to the soil or ground, and can also mean a country, territory, or region. In the Bible, it is used to describe the earth and its inhabitants, and is often translated as 'land' or 'country'.
Definition: : soil 1) land, earth 1a) earth 1a1) whole earth (as opposed to a part) 1a2) earth (as opposed to heaven) 1a3) earth (inhabitants) 1b) land 1b1) country, territory 1b2) district, region 1b3) tribal territory 1b4) piece of ground 1b5) land of Canaan, Israel 1b6) inhabitants of land 1b7) Sheol, land without return, (under) world 1b8) city (-state) 1c) ground, surface of the earth 1c1) ground 1c2) soil 1d) (in phrases) 1d1) people of the land 1d2) space or distance of country (in measurements of distance) 1d3) level or plain country 1d4) land of the living 1d5) end(s) of the earth 1e) (almost wholly late in usage) 1e1) lands, countries 1e1a) often in contrast to Canaan
Usage: Occurs in 2190 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] common, country, earth, field, ground, land, [idiom] natins, way, [phrase] wilderness, world. See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 18:18; Genesis 42:13.
בָּ֣אוּ bôwʼ H935 "Lebo" V-Qal-Perf-3cp
This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.
Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter
Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.
שָׁ֔מָּ/ה shâm H8033 "there" Adv | Suff
The Hebrew word sham means there or then, often used to describe a location or point in time. It can also mean thither or thence, indicating movement or direction. This word is used frequently in the Bible to provide context and clarify the setting of a story.
Definition: 1) there, thither 1a) there 1b) thither (after verbs of motion) 1c) from there, thence 1d) then (as an adverb of time) Aramaic equivalent: tam.mah (תַּמָּה "there" H8536)
Usage: Occurs in 732 OT verses. KJV: in it, [phrase] thence, there (-in, [phrase] of, [phrase] out), [phrase] thither, [phrase] whither. See also: Genesis 2:8; Exodus 21:33; Deuteronomy 19:4.
לָקְח֗וּ lâqach H3947 "to take" V-Qal-Perf-3cp
This Hebrew word means to take or get something, and it is used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to take a wife, to take possession of something, or to receive a gift. For example, in Genesis 2:22, God takes a rib from Adam to create Eve.
Definition: : take 1) to take, get, fetch, lay hold of, seize, receive, acquire, buy, bring, marry, take a wife, snatch, take away 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to take, take in the hand 1a2) to take and carry along 1a3) to take from, take out of, take, carry away, take away 1a4) to take to or for a person, procure, get, take possession of, select, choose, take in marriage, receive, accept 1a5) to take up or upon, put upon 1a6) to fetch 1a7) to take, lead, conduct 1a8) to take, capture, seize 1a9) to take, carry off 1a10) to take (vengeance) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be captured 1b2) to be taken away, be removed 1b3) to be taken, brought unto 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to be taken from or out of 1c2) to be stolen from 1c3) to be taken captive 1c4) to be taken away, be removed 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be taken unto, be brought unto 1d2) to be taken out of 1d3) to be taken away 1e) (Hithpael) 1e1) to take hold of oneself 1e2) to flash about (of lightning)
Usage: Occurs in 909 OT verses. KJV: accept, bring, buy, carry away, drawn, fetch, get, infold, [idiom] many, mingle, place, receive(-ing), reserve, seize, send for, take (away, -ing, up), use, win. See also: Genesis 2:15; Genesis 34:17; Exodus 30:23.
אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
הַ/פֶּ֨סֶל֙ pᵉçîyl H6456 "idol" Art | N-ms
This Hebrew word refers to an idol or carved image, often used to describe false gods or objects of worship. It is sometimes translated as graven image or quarry, emphasizing the act of carving or shaping the idol. This concept is seen in the Bible as a form of rebellion against God.
Definition: image, idol, graven image Another spelling of pe.sel (פֶּ֫סֶל "idol" H6459)
Usage: Occurs in 24 OT verses. KJV: carved (graven) image, quarry. See also: Deuteronomy 7:5; Psalms 78:58; Isaiah 10:10.
וְ/אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." Conj | DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
הָ֣/אֵפ֔וֹד ʼêphôwd H646 "ephod" Art | N-ms
The ephod was a special vest worn by priests in the Bible, including the high priest, made with gold, blue, and purple threads. It was a symbol of their role and had shoulder pieces and a breastpiece with gems. In Exodus 28:6, God instructs Moses on how to make the ephod.
Definition: 1) ephod 1a) priestly garment, shoulder-cape or mantle, outer garment 1a1) worn by an ordinary priest and made of white stuff 1a2) worn by the high priest-more costly, woven of gold, blue, purple, scarlet, and linen threads provided with shoulder-pieces and a breast piece of like material, ornamented with gems and gold
Usage: Occurs in 39 OT verses. KJV: ephod. See also: Exodus 25:7; Exodus 39:21; Hosea 3:4.
וְ/אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." Conj | DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
הַ/תְּרָפִ֖ים tᵉrâphîym H8655 "teraphim" Art | N-mp
Teraphim were idols or images used in worship, often in a household shrine. This Hebrew word refers to a family idol, and is used in the Bible to describe idolatry or false worship. The KJV translates it as idols or images.
Definition: § 1) idolatry, idols, image(s), teraphim, family idol 1a) a kind of idol used in household shrine or worship
Usage: Occurs in 15 OT verses. KJV: idols(-atry), images, teraphim. See also: Genesis 31:19; Judges 18:20; Zechariah 10:2.
וְ/אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." Conj | DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
הַ/מַּסֵּכָ֑ה maççêkâh H4541 "liquid" Art | N-fs
This term can mean a veil or covering, but also a cast metal image or a woven fabric, like a web or coverlet.
Definition: 1) a pouring, libation, molten metal, cast image, drink offering 1a) libation (with covenant sacrifice) 1b) molten metal, molten image, molten gods
Usage: Occurs in 28 OT verses. KJV: covering, molten (image), vail. See also: Exodus 32:4; 2 Kings 17:16; Psalms 106:19.
וְ/הַ/כֹּהֵ֗ן kôhên H3548 "priest" Conj | Art | N-ms
In the Bible, a priest is a person who serves God and leads others in worship, like the Levitical priests in Exodus. They were responsible for making sacrifices and following God's laws. This term is also used to describe Jesus as a priest-king.
Definition: 1) priest, principal officer or chief ruler 1a) priest-king (Melchizedek, Messiah) 1b) pagan priests 1c) priests of Jehovah 1d) Levitical priests 1e) Zadokite priests 1f) Aaronic priests 1g) the high priest Aramaic equivalent: ka.hen (כָּהֵן "priest" H3549)
Usage: Occurs in 653 OT verses. KJV: chief ruler, [idiom] own, priest, prince, principal officer. See also: Genesis 14:18; Leviticus 13:33; Numbers 17:2.
נִצָּב֙ nâtsab H5324 "to stand" V-Niphal
To stand or station oneself, either physically or as an appointed official. This word is used in various contexts, including setting up a monument or establishing a leader. It can also mean to stand firm or be established in a position.
Definition: 1) to stand, take one's stand, stand upright, be set (over), establish 1a) (Niphal) 1a1) to station oneself, take one's stand 1a2) to stand, be stationed 1a3) to stand, take an upright position 1a4) to be stationed, be appointed 1a5) deputy, prefect, appointed, deputed (subst) 1a6) to stand firm 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to station, set 1b2) to set up, erect 1b3) to cause to stand erect 1b4) to fix, establish 1c) (Hophal) to be fixed, be determined, be stationary
Usage: Occurs in 75 OT verses. KJV: appointed, deputy, erect, establish, [idiom] Huzzah (by mistake for a proper name), lay, officer, pillar, present, rear up, set (over, up), settle, sharpen, establish, (make to) stand(-ing, still, up, upright), best state. See also: Genesis 18:2; 1 Samuel 15:12; Psalms 39:6.
פֶּ֣תַח pethach H6607 "entrance" N-ms
A pethach is an entrance or doorway, like the gates of Jerusalem or the door to the temple, often symbolizing transition or access to a new place.
Definition: opening, doorway, entrance
Usage: Occurs in 154 OT verses. KJV: door, entering (in), entrance (-ry), gate, opening, place. See also: Genesis 4:7; Judges 9:40; Psalms 24:7.
הַ/שַּׁ֔עַר shaʻar H8179 "gate" Art | N-ms
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means a gate or door, often referring to city entrances or temple doors, like in Genesis and Exodus. It can also symbolize a meeting place or marketplace. The word is used to describe important locations in the Bible.
Definition: : gate 1) gate 1a) gate (of entrance) 1b) gate (of space inside gate, i.e. marketplace, public meeting place) 1b1) city, town 1c) gate (of palace, royal castle, temple, court of tabernacle) 1d) heaven
Usage: Occurs in 302 OT verses. KJV: city, door, gate, port ([idiom] -er). See also: Genesis 19:1; 1 Chronicles 9:18; Psalms 9:14.
וְ/שֵׁשׁ shêsh H8337 "six" Conj | Adj
This Hebrew word means the number six, and is often used in the Bible to describe measurements, like the six days of creation in Genesis 1.
Definition: 1) six 1a) six (cardinal number) 1b) sixth (ordinal number) 1c) in combination with other numbers Aramaic equivalent: shet (שֵׁת "six" H8353)
Usage: Occurs in 202 OT verses. KJV: six(-teen, -teenth), sixth. See also: Genesis 7:6; 1 Kings 6:6; Proverbs 6:16.
מֵא֣וֹת mêʼâh H3967 "hundred" Adj
Means a hundred, used as a simple number or part of a larger number in the Bible. It appears in various forms, including fractions like one one-hundredth. Found in books like Genesis and Psalms.
Definition: 1) hundred 1a) as simple number 1b) as part of larger number 1c) as a fraction-one one-hundredth (1/100) Aramaic equivalent: me.ah (מְאָה "hundred" H3969)
Usage: Occurs in 511 OT verses. KJV: hundred((-fold), -th), [phrase] sixscore. See also: Genesis 5:3; Numbers 2:6; Judges 18:17.
הָ/אִ֔ישׁ ʼîysh H376 "man" Art | N-ms
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
הֶ/חָג֖וּר châgar H2296 "to gird" Art | V-Qal-Inf-c
The Hebrew word chagar means to gird or put on a belt, and is used to describe preparing for battle or work, as seen in various KJV translations.
Definition: 1) to gird, gird on, gird oneself, put on a belt 1a)(Qal) 1a1) to gird 1a2) to gird on, bind on 1a3) to gird oneself
Usage: Occurs in 41 OT verses. KJV: be able to put on, be afraid, appointed, gird, restrain, [idiom] on every side. See also: Exodus 12:11; 2 Kings 3:21; Psalms 45:4.
כְּלֵ֥י kᵉlîy H3627 "article/utensil" N-mp
This Hebrew word refers to any object or tool, like a utensil or a piece of furniture. It is used to describe a wide range of items, from musical instruments to weapons. It emphasizes the object's purpose or function.
Definition: 1) article, vessel, implement, utensil 1a) article, object (general) 1b) utensil, implement, apparatus, vessel 1b1) implement (of hunting or war) 1b2) implement (of music) 1b3) implement, tool (of labour) 1b4) equipment, yoke (of oxen) 1b5) utensils, furniture 1c) vessel, receptacle (general) 1d) vessels (boats) of paper-reed
Usage: Occurs in 276 OT verses. KJV: armour(-bearer), artillery, bag, carriage, [phrase] furnish, furniture, instrument, jewel, that is made of, [idiom] one from another, that which pertaineth, pot, [phrase] psaltery, sack, stuff, thing, tool, vessel, ware, weapon, [phrase] whatsoever. See also: Genesis 24:53; 1 Samuel 14:13; Ezra 8:26.
הַ/מִּלְחָמָֽה milchâmâh H4421 "battle" Art | N-fs
This word means battle or war, describing a fight or conflict. It is used in the Bible to talk about wars and battles, like the ones in the book of Joshua. The KJV translates it as battle or fight.
Definition: battle, war
Usage: Occurs in 308 OT verses. KJV: battle, fight(-ing), war(-rior). See also: Genesis 14:2; 1 Samuel 30:24; 2 Chronicles 13:14.

Study Notes — Judges 18:17

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Cross References

ReferenceText (BSB)
1 Judges 18:14 Then the five men who had gone to spy out the land of Laish said to their brothers, “Did you know that one of these houses has an ephod, household gods, a graven image, and a molten idol? Now think about what you should do.”
2 Judges 17:4–5 So he returned the silver to his mother, and she took two hundred shekels of silver and gave them to a silversmith, who made them into a graven image and a molten idol. And they were placed in the house of Micah. Now this man Micah had a shrine, and he made an ephod and some household idols, and ordained one of his sons as his priest.
3 Judges 18:2 So the Danites sent out five men from their clans, men of valor from Zorah and Eshtaol, to spy out the land and explore it. “Go and explore the land,” they told them. The men entered the hill country of Ephraim and came to the house of Micah, where they spent the night.
4 Genesis 31:19 Now while Laban was out shearing his sheep, Rachel stole her father’s household idols.
5 Isaiah 46:7 They lift it to their shoulder and carry it along; they set it in its place, and there it stands, not budging from that spot. They cry out to it, but it does not answer; it saves no one from his troubles.
6 Micah 5:13 I will also cut off the carved images and sacred pillars from among you, so that you will no longer bow down to the work of your own hands.
7 Isaiah 46:1–2 Bel crouches; Nebo cowers. Their idols weigh down beasts and cattle. The images you carry are burdensome, a load to the weary animal. The gods cower; they crouch together, unable to relieve the burden; but they themselves go into captivity.
8 1 Samuel 6:2–9 the Philistines summoned the priests and diviners, saying, “What shall we do with the ark of the LORD? Tell us how to send it back to its place.” They replied, “If you return the ark of the God of Israel, do not send it away empty, but by all means return it to Him with a guilt offering. Then you will be healed, and you will understand why His hand has not been lifted from you.” “What guilt offering should we send back to Him?” asked the Philistines. “Five gold tumors and five gold rats,” they said, “according to the number of rulers of the Philistines, since the same plague has struck both you and your rulers. Make images of your tumors and of the rats that are ravaging the land. Give glory to the God of Israel, and perhaps He will lift His hand from you and your gods and your land. Why harden your hearts as the Egyptians and Pharaoh hardened theirs? When He afflicted them, did they not send the people on their way as they departed? Now, therefore, prepare one new cart with two milk cows that have never been yoked. Hitch the cows to the cart, but take their calves away and pen them up. Take the ark of the LORD, set it on the cart, and in a chest beside it put the gold objects you are sending Him as a guilt offering. Then send the ark on its way, but keep watching it. If it goes up the road to its homeland, toward Beth-shemesh, it is the LORD who has brought on us this great disaster. But if it does not, then we will know that it was not His hand that punished us and that it happened by chance.”
9 1 Samuel 4:11 The ark of God was captured, and Eli’s two sons, Hophni and Phinehas, died.
10 Judges 6:31 But Joash said to all who stood against him, “Are you contending for Baal? Are you trying to save him? Whoever pleads his case will be put to death by morning! If Baal is a god, let him contend for himself with the one who has torn down his altar.”

Judges 18:17 Summary

This verse, Judges 18:17, tells us about a group of men who went into someone's house and took some idols, which were objects used for worship, similar to the golden calf in Exodus 32:4. The priest was standing outside with a group of armed men, and this event shows how the Israelites were struggling to remain faithful to God's commands, as seen in Deuteronomy 13:6-10. We can learn from this story by being careful not to let our own desires and ambitions lead us away from God, and instead prioritizing our relationship with Him, as encouraged in Psalm 37:4. By doing so, we can avoid the temptation to worship 'idols' and stay focused on our devotion to God.

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the five men looking for when they went inside Micah's house?

The five men were looking for the graven image, the ephod, the household idols, and the molten idol, which were idols used for worship, as seen in Judges 18:17, and this act is reminiscent of the warnings against idolatry in Deuteronomy 12:3.

Why were the six hundred armed men standing at the entrance of the gate?

The six hundred armed men were standing at the entrance of the gate, armed with their weapons of war, as seen in Judges 18:16, to provide protection and support for the five men who went inside to take the idols, similar to how God provided protection for the Israelites in Exodus 14:13-14.

What can we learn from the priest's actions in this verse?

The priest's actions in this verse, standing at the entrance of the gate with the six hundred armed men, suggest that he may have been complicit in the Danites' plan to take the idols, which highlights the importance of spiritual leaders being faithful to God's commands, as seen in Malachi 2:7.

How does this event relate to the larger story of the Israelites?

This event in Judges 18:17 is part of the larger story of the Israelites' conquest of Canaan, and their struggle to remain faithful to God's commands, as seen in Joshua 1:7-8 and Judges 2:10-11.

Reflection Questions

  1. What are some modern-day 'idols' that can distract us from our devotion to God, and how can we avoid them, as warned against in 1 John 5:21?
  2. How can we, like the Danites, be tempted to take matters into our own hands and disregard God's commands, and what are the consequences of such actions, as seen in Proverbs 14:12?
  3. What role should spiritual leaders play in guiding us towards faithfulness to God, and how can we support them in their ministry, as seen in Hebrews 13:17?
  4. In what ways can we prioritize our relationship with God above our own desires and ambitions, as encouraged in Matthew 6:33?

Gill's Exposition on Judges 18:17

And the five men that went out to spy the land went up and came thither,.... They first came to Micah's house, and saluted the young man, and after that salutation told him there was such a number of

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Judges 18:17

And they went up, and pitched in Kirjath-je'arim, in Judah: wherefore they called that place Mahanehdan unto this day: behold, it is behind Kirjath-je'arim. No JFB commentary on these verses.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Judges 18:17

Come in thither, to wit, into the house, and that part of it where those things were. In the entering of the gate; whither they had drawn him forth that they might without noise or hinderance take them away.

Trapp's Commentary on Judges 18:17

Judges 18:17 And the five men that went to spy out the land went up, [and] came in thither, [and] took the graven image, and the ephod, and the teraphim, and the molten image: and the priest stood in the entering of the gate with the six hundred men [that were] appointed with weapons of war.Ver. 17. And took the graven image, &c.] Not out of any hatred of idolatry - as neither did Cambyses when he destroyed the Egyptian idols, nor Dionysius when he spoiled the temple of Jupiter - but to set up those monuments elsewhere, in case they should prosper in their expedition.

Ellicott's Commentary on Judges 18:17

(15-18) In these verses we have a graphic description of the whole nefarious proceeding. The five spies, knowing Jonathan, salute him, and inveigle him to the entrance of the court to talk to their six hundred companions. While the chiefs of this little army detain him in conversation, without any show of violence the five slip away unobserved to the alîyah, or upper room, which serves as the chapel, and steal all the essentials of the worship—namely, (1) the ephod; (2) the teraphim; (3) the graven image; (4) the molten image. It is true that in Judges 18:20-30 the massecah is not mentioned; but it may be regarded as belonging to the pesel. It is only when he sees them in actual possession of these that Jonathan asks the alarmed question, “What do ye?”

Cambridge Bible on Judges 18:17

17. and came in … molten image] Again, the clumsy and irregular construction as well as the contents of the clause shew that it is not original; a doublet from Judges 18:18; lit. they came in thither, they took; the RV. inserts and twice. and the priest … with the six hundred] The text seems to say that, while the spies went up to Micah’s house, the priest and the 600 armed men stood at the entrance of the village. In Judges 18:18-19, however, the priest is not at the entrance of the village, but at the door of the house; with the six hundred etc. should rather be and the six hundred men girt with weapons of war …, an unfinished sentence without a verb. It is impossible to recover the original form of the text here. The general sense intended may be this: while the 600 warriors stood at the entrance of the village, the five spies went up to Micah’s house, were confronted by the priest, and, silencing his expostulations, plundered the sanctuary. by the entering of the gate] Always of the gate of a city (e.g. Judges 9:35; Judges 9:44, Joshua 8:29; Joshua 20:4 etc.), not the door of a house. The use of the expression here implies at least a group of houses, such as a farm, or a village. The LXX. cod. B has a brief equivalent for Judges 18:17, ‘and the five men who went to spy out the land went up, (Judges 18:18) and entered into Micaiah’s house, and the priest was standing [there]; and they fetched’ etc. It is doubtful, however, whether this can be taken to represent the original text.

Barnes' Notes on Judges 18:17

The five went back to Micah’s chapel (Micah’s house, Judges 18:18) and took the ephod, teraphim, etc., and brought them to the gate where the priest was talking to the 600 men.

Whedon's Commentary on Judges 18:17

17. Went up, and came in thither — That is, in Micah’s sanctuary. The images, etc., seem to have been kept in an upper chamber. Comp. 2 Kings 23:12; Jeremiah 19:13.

Sermons on Judges 18:17

SermonDescription
J.C. Philpot Idolatry by J.C. Philpot J.C. Philpot, in his sermon 'The History of an Idol, its Rise, Reign and Progress,' delves into the deep-rooted sin of idolatry in the human heart, tracing its prevalence from anci
J.C. Philpot The History of an Idol, Its Rise, Reign and Progress by J.C. Philpot J.C. Philpot delivers a powerful sermon on idolatry, highlighting how it is deeply rooted in the human heart and can manifest in various forms, even among Christians. He emphasizes
J. Vernon McGee (Genesis) Genesis 31:32-36 by J. Vernon McGee In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Jacob and Laban from the book of Genesis. Jacob confronts Laban, questioning why he is pursuing him so aggressively. Jacob is c
Alan Redpath Worship and Witness by Alan Redpath In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the parable of the sower from the eighth chapter of the gospel of Luke. He emphasizes the contrast between those who receive the word of God
David Ravenhill Anatomy of a Prophetic Word by David Ravenhill David Ravenhill discusses the importance of understanding the prophetic word, emphasizing the need for a balance between the Word of God and the Spirit of God. He highlights the co
Horatius Bonar Rev. 3:8. the Church's Little Strength, and the Lord's Great Love by Horatius Bonar Horatius Bonar emphasizes the tender love and gracious character of Christ as depicted in Revelation 3:8, where He acknowledges the Church's little strength while offering an open
Chuck Smith Isaiah 46:1 by Chuck Smith Chuck Smith emphasizes the contrast between supporting false gods and being supported by the true and living God. He illustrates how many people are burdened by the idols they crea

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