Definition: Therefore, behold, I will proceed to do a marvellous work among this people, [even] a marvellous work and a wonder: for the wisdom of their wise [men] shall perish, and the understanding of their prudent [men] shall be hid.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 29:14. It’s a really beautiful and thought-provoking statement about God's plan for humanity. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is going to actively work – to do something significant and impactful – with people, but specifically focusing on their wisdom and understanding. It suggests that even the smartest, most clever people will eventually lose their knowledge and insight. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Therefore, behold, I will proceed to do a marvellous work among this people…” - This is like saying "God is going to be very active and change things." "Marvellous work" means something amazing or extraordinary. “…even [a] marvellous work and a wonder:” - This emphasizes that it’s not just any good thing happening, but something truly remarkable. It's a significant transformation. “for the wisdom of their wise men shall perish, and the understanding of their prudent men shall be hid.” – This is the core of the verse. Wisdom: This refers to knowledge, insight, and the ability to make good decisions. Wise people often have a deep understanding of things. Prudent Men: This means people who are careful, thoughtful, and wise in their actions and choices. “Shall perish” : This is a strong word – it means they will lose their knowledge and ability to understand things. It’s like something disappearing or becoming lost. “shall be hid” : This means that their understanding will be obscured, hidden, or become less clear. Overall Meaning & Context: The verse is often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of pride and foolishness. It suggests that if people become too focused on their own cleverness and wisdom without God's guidance, they can lose sight of the true meaning of life and the good things that are important. It’s a call for humility and seeking God’s direction rather than relying solely on our own intellect. Why is this a powerful message? Historically, this verse has been linked to the rise of empires and civilizations. It speaks to the potential for great power – human wisdom – to be undermined by pride and self-reliance. It's about recognizing that true strength comes from God’s grace and guidance, not just our own abilities. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in a different way? Connect it to a specific story or example?