Definition: And they put him in ward in chains, and brought him to the king of Babylon: they brought him into holds, that his voice should no more be heard upon the mountains of Israel.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 19:9. It's a really significant passage about God’s judgment and a shift in power. Here’s a simple explanation: Basically, it says that God is punishing a man who was falsely accused and imprisoned by the Israelites. Let’s unpack it further: “And they put him in ward in chains…” : This means he was held captive, confined within a prison or jail. Think of it like being locked up. “…and brought him to the king of Babylon:” The King of Babylon was a powerful and wealthy kingdom in Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq). This is where he was taken. “They brought him into holds…” : "Holds" means a secure, fortified place – like a prison or a holding cell. It emphasizes that he’s being kept safe from outside influence. “…that his voice should no more be heard upon the mountains of Israel.” This is the most important part. It means that after being imprisoned and held captive, God is silencing him. He's preventing him from speaking or proclaiming anything – from preaching, teaching, or even simply expressing his views. The "mountains of Israel" refers to a place of importance and significance for the Israelites. What does this all mean? It’s a powerful message about: God's Justice: He is taking away something that was wrong – a false accusation against someone who shouldn't be accused. Control: God is asserting his authority and controlling events, even if those events are unjust. Silence of Truth: The verse suggests a deliberate attempt to suppress the truth, preventing it from being shared or understood. Important Note: This story is part of a larger narrative in Ezekiel’s book – a prophecy about Israel's future and God’s plan for them. It highlights the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God's will. Do you want me to delve deeper into any specific aspect of this verse, like its historical context or symbolism? For example, would you like to know: What does “ward” mean in this context? How does this relate to the larger story of Ezekiel’s book?