Definition: And say, Thus saith the king, Put this [fellow] in the prison, and feed him with bread of affliction and with water of affliction, until I return in peace.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 18:26. It's a pretty serious and dramatic statement about how to deal with someone who is causing trouble or wrongdoing. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse speaks about punishment and rehabilitation, but with a focus on long-term care. It’s saying, “Even though this person is causing problems, we will not simply punish them – we will take care of them for a long time.” Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And say, Thus saith the king…” - This establishes that this isn’t just a casual command. It’s coming from someone in a position of power (the King). It suggests this is a significant and important decision. “…Put this [fellow] in the prison…” – This means imprisoning the person. It's essentially locking them away for a period of time, likely to prevent further harm. "...and feed him with bread of affliction and with water of affliction…” - This is the crucial part. “Bread of affliction” refers to hardship, suffering, or deprivation – things that are designed to make someone miserable. "Water of affliction" represents harsh treatment, perhaps abuse, or a difficult situation. "...until I return in peace." - This means the King will continue to care for this person while they are being punished. They won’t just let them off with a simple warning; they'll keep them under observation and provide support until the King returns to restore order and peace. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: This verse is a combination of several ideas: Justice and Accountability: It emphasizes that there needs to be consequences for wrongdoing. Care and Rehabilitation: It suggests that punishment isn't just about making someone suffer, but also about helping them grow and become better. Hope for Restoration: The "return in peace" part offers hope – the King is actively working towards a resolution and restoring order to the situation. Context is Key: This verse often comes up when dealing with a traitor or someone who has been defiant. It’s a strong statement of authority, demanding a measured response that prioritizes both justice and a chance for change. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Connect this verse to other Bible stories? Give a more detailed explanation of the symbolism behind it (like "bread of affliction")?