👉 This shall be the punishment of Egypt, and the punishment of all nations that come not up to keep the feast of tabernacles.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Zechariah 14:19. It’s a really important and somewhat unsettling passage in the Bible. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse speaks about a devastating future – a massive punishment for Egypt – and it’s designed to discourage nations from celebrating the Tabernacle of God (the centerpiece of Jewish worship). It essentially says that if anyone doesn't participate in the Passover Feast, which is a huge celebration commemorating God’s deliverance of Israel, they will face terrible consequences. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “This shall be the punishment of Egypt…” – This refers to the land of Egypt, which was then ruled by Pharaoh. It's not just about one bad ruler; it’s a general message that the entire region will suffer. “…and the punishment of all nations that come not up to keep the feast…” – This is the core of the verse. It means that if any nation – any country – doesn't participate in the Passover Feast, they are inviting a terrible fate. "Keep the feast" refers to a very important religious event for Jews. "...the [the] tabernacle of God." - This is crucial! The verse isn’t just about Egypt; it’s about God’s presence and His covenant with Israel. The Tabernacle represents God's glory, His holiness, and His plan for a special relationship with his people. What does this mean practically? Historically, this verse is interpreted as a prophecy of the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem by the Babylonians – a powerful empire that controlled Egypt at the time. The Babylonians were notorious for their brutality, and this verse suggests they would punish Egypt severely if it didn't participate in the Passover Feast. It’s a warning about the potential for global conflict and the importance of honoring God’s covenant with his people. Important Note: This is a complex and debated passage. Different interpretations exist within biblical scholarship, but this is the generally accepted understanding based on historical context and biblical interpretation. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Discuss its significance within the Old Testament? Explore related concepts or themes from the Bible?
