Definition: At that time the servants of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came up against Jerusalem, and the city was besieged.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Kings 24:10. It’s a pretty dramatic statement about a very serious event in biblical history. Here's a simple explanation: Basically, it means: “At that time, the people of Jerusalem were attacked by the Babylonian army while they were besieged.” Let’s unpack it a little further: Nebuchadnezzar King: Nebuchadnezzar was a powerful king in Babylon – a huge empire located far to the east of us. He ruled over a vast territory and was known for his incredible building projects and military might. The Servants Came Up Against Jerusalem: This suggests that the Babylonian army wasn’t just passing through; they were actively attacking Jerusalem, which was a very important city in Judea (part of what is now Israel). They Were Surrounded: The word "besieged" means that the city was surrounded by walls and defenses, making it difficult to enter or leave. It meant the defenders were under constant threat. What's the significance? This story is a warning about the dangers of resisting God’s will. It’s often interpreted as a sign that God is testing people, challenging them, and sometimes punishing them for disobedience. It’s a reminder that disobeying God’s commands can have very serious consequences. It's important to note: This verse is part of a larger story of hardship and suffering in the Bible, often linked with the downfall of Judah under Nebuchadnezzar. It’s a message about the importance of staying faithful to God, even when things are tough. --- Do you want me to explain any specific aspect of this verse in more detail? For example, we could talk about: The context of this event in the Bible The symbolism behind the imagery used (like the "chained figure") How it relates to other stories and teachings