Definition: That thou hast slain my children, and delivered them to cause them to pass through [the fire] for them?

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this incredibly important verse from the Book of Ezekiel. It’s a really shocking and complex passage that speaks about God’s judgment against Israel. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Story: Ezekiel was a prophet who was sent to Egypt by God to deliver them from slavery. During his time in Egypt, he experienced a vision of the destruction of the Israelites' children – specifically, the sacrificial animals and young boys – being burned in a massive fire. This is what this verse describes. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: “That thou hast slain my children” : This refers to the covenant God made with Israel through Moses. This covenant was a promise of blessing and protection, but it also included a promise that God would be merciful to them. God promised to forgive them for their sins. “…and delivered them to cause them to pass through [the fire]” : This is the key part. God, in his power, actively chose to destroy these children – not through a natural disaster like a flood or earthquake, but through a deliberate act of burning them. He chose to use a massive fire as a means of punishment and purification. Why is this important? This verse highlights several things: God’s Sovereignty: It shows that God has absolute control over events and can choose to punish people exactly as he chooses. His Justice: It demonstrates God's just and righteous nature, as he uses punishment to purify and correct humanity. The Consequences of Sin: It’s a powerful reminder that sin leads to consequences – often devastating ones. Important Note: This verse is highly symbolic and doesn't necessarily mean that the children were actually burned in a literal fire. It’s a metaphorical representation of God's judgment on Israel's sins and their rejection of his covenant. --- Disclaimer: I am an AI assistant, and this explanation is based on common interpretations of biblical texts. Different scholars and theologians may have different understandings and interpretations of this passage. Would you like me to: Explain another part of the chapter? Discuss the symbolism behind this verse in more detail? Provide a different perspective on this event?