Definition: Son of man, set thy face toward Jerusalem, and drop [thy word] toward the holy places, and prophesy against the land of Israel,

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from Ezekiel 21:2. It’s a really important and complex verse in the Bible, and it speaks about God’s plan for his people and the future of Israel. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is essentially saying that God is sending a message to the leader of Israel – Ezekiel – to deal with a serious problem that will eventually destroy them. It's a warning about impending disaster and a call for action. Let's unpack it word by word: “Ezekiel 21:2” : This refers to a specific prophecy written in Ezekiel’s book, which is part of the larger prophetic books of the Bible. “Son of man” : This is a figure from Jewish tradition who was believed to be a messenger of God. He was often associated with judgment and bringing about change. “set thy face toward Jerusalem” : This means Ezekiel needs to focus his attention specifically on Jerusalem – the heart of Israel. It’s a direction, a goal. “drop [thy word] toward the holy places” : This is the key part. "Thy word" refers to God's message, and “the holy places” refers to the Temple in Jerusalem (where the Jewish people prayed and worshipped). So, Ezekiel needs to speak about this place – to deliver a message there. “prophesy against the land of Israel” : This means Ezekiel is going to tell a harsh truth about the land – that it will be cursed and destroyed by God’s judgment. What does it mean in practical terms? This verse paints a picture of a devastating future for Israel. It suggests: God's Judgment: The message isn't just a warning; it signifies God’s righteous wrath against the nation. A Focus on Jerusalem: The location is crucial - it’s not just any land, but specifically Jerusalem because it was the center of their worship and identity. A Message of Destruction: Ezekiel is telling them that they are in trouble, that God will ultimately punish them with destruction and ruin. Important Context (Briefly): This verse comes before a larger section of prophecy about Israel’s downfall. It's part of a series of prophecies that describe the events leading up to the Babylonian exile – a time when Israel was conquered and exiled from its land. In short, it’s a call for Ezekiel to act decisively and deliver a message of judgment against Israel, warning them about impending disaster. --- Disclaimer: I've provided this explanation based on common interpretations of the verse within biblical scholarship. Different theologians and scholars may offer slightly different understandings. Would you like me to: Explain another part of Ezekiel 21? Discuss the significance of the "Son of man" figure? Provide a summary of the overall story that comes after this passage?

Definition: Appoint a way, that the sword may come to Rabbath of the Ammonites, and to Judah in Jerusalem the defenced.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Ezekiel 21:20. It's a pretty serious and dramatic verse, and it speaks about a future conflict. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse tells us that God is going to use a specific situation – involving the Ammonites and the Judahians – as a way to prepare for a large-scale war. Let's unpack each part: “Ezekiel 21:20” : This refers to a prophecy written by Ezekiel, a Jewish prophet in ancient times. It’s a specific prediction about future events. “Appoint a way…” : Ezekiel is saying that God is actively creating or setting up a plan for this conflict. He's not just letting things happen; he's putting something in place to make it possible. “…that the sword may come to Rabbath of the Ammonites…” : This refers to the Ammonites, a group of people who lived near the border of Israel. They are being described as a target – they’re vulnerable and could be attacked. “Rabbath” means "stronghold" or "fortress." “…and to Judah in Jerusalem the defenced.” : This is where it gets really significant. “Judah” refers to the people of Jerusalem, specifically the area around the city. The verse says that God will protect them – “defend” them – from attack. Putting it all together: Ezekiel 21:20 describes a situation where God is strategically arranging things to allow for a large-scale war between the Ammonites and Judah. It’s essentially saying, "God is preparing a way for this conflict to happen." Important Note: This is a very symbolic passage. It's not about a literal, immediate war happening today. It's a warning and a plan for God to use events in the future to ultimately bring about a significant conflict. It’s a call to prayer and vigilance – that we should be ready for what’s coming. In short, it’s a prophecy about a future battle between groups of people, with God actively working to protect those who are vulnerable. --- Disclaimer: I am an AI Chatbot and not a religious scholar. This explanation is based on interpretations of the text within its historical context. Would you like me to: Explain another Bible verse? Provide more background information about Ezekiel or this passage?

Definition: For the king of Babylon stood at the parting of the way, at the head of the two ways, to use divination: he made [his] arrows bright, he consulted with images, he looked in the liver.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 21:21. It's a really unsettling passage that describes a king in Babylon making serious mistakes and seeking power through dark practices. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Story: Babylon is Powerful: The verse tells us about a king in Babylon, a city known for its wealth and political influence. Dividing the Way: He was deliberately dividing the land into two paths or "ways" – essentially, trade routes or travel routes. This was done to control where people went and what they did. Divination & Images: The king started using divination (basically, trying to predict the future through magic or guesswork) and consulted with images – idols or figures – believing these things held power. He essentially sought guidance from something other than God. Looking in the Liver: This is the most disturbing part. The king was looking into the liver – a place believed to hold the spirit of the dead. He was attempting to gain knowledge about the future through this unsettling practice. What it Means - A Warning About Hubris & Corruption: This verse is a warning against pride and seeking power without God. It's suggesting that: The King’s Focus Was Wrong: His actions were driven by vanity, a desire for control, and a rejection of true faith. He wasn't seeking to rule justly or protect his people, but rather to gain power through dark means. It’s Dangerous to Rely on Outside Powers: By turning to divination and idols, he was essentially abandoning the guidance of God and relying on something that isn’t divine. The Spirit of Darkness is Present: The verse suggests a pervasive presence of evil and temptation within the king's court. In short, it warns against seeking power through unnatural or deceptive means. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a prophecy about the future destruction of Babylon and its kingdom. However, it’s important to remember that Ezekiel was writing in a time of great political upheaval, and this passage is part of a larger narrative of divine judgment and warning. --- Do you want me to: Explain any particular aspect of the verse in more detail? Connect it to other biblical stories or themes? Discuss its symbolism?

Definition: At his right hand was the divination for Jerusalem, to appoint captains, to open the mouth in the slaughter, to lift up the voice with shouting, to appoint [battering] rams against the gates, to cast a mount, [and] to build a fort.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 21:22. It’s a really serious and dramatic description of a terrible future event in biblical prophecy. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a horrific plan to utterly destroy Jerusalem – the city where Jesus was born – and devastate the entire region around it. Let's unpack each part: “At his right hand…” : This tells us this is happening later , in the future, after a long period of trouble. It’s a looming event, not something that will happen immediately. “…was the divination for Jerusalem…” : Divination means looking into the future or predicting things. This verse describes a focused effort to predict and plan what will happen to Jerusalem. “To appoint captains…” : This suggests a military leadership structure is being established specifically for Jerusalem – a strong army to defend it. “…to open the mouth in the slaughter…” : This is a frightening image. It means the leaders are planning to attack Jerusalem with violence and destruction. They’re setting up an opportunity to kill and ruin the city. “To lift up the voice with shouting…” : This refers to a coordinated, loud, aggressive attack – a massive military assault. “…to appoint [battering] rams against the gates…” : This is a specific type of siege weapon – rams – that would be used to try and breach the city walls. They’re trying to overwhelm the defenses with these large, immovable barriers. “To cast a mount…” : This suggests a huge, destructive fire or explosion would be launched towards Jerusalem. “…to build a fort…” : This indicates a massive defensive structure is being constructed – a fortified city – to protect Jerusalem from further attacks. Overall Interpretation: The verse paints a picture of a deliberate and calculated plan for widespread destruction. It’s a prophecy of a period of intense conflict, violence, and ultimately, utter ruin for Jerusalem. It suggests a significant and devastating event that will befall the city. Important Note: This is a very difficult passage to interpret, and it's often used to highlight God's judgment on sin and disobedience. It’s important to remember this is a prophecy – a prediction of what will happen, not necessarily a guaranteed outcome. --- Would you like me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Discuss the context of this verse within the larger biblical narrative? Connect it to other biblical prophecies?

Definition: And it shall be unto them as a false divination in their sight, to them that have sworn oaths: but he will call to remembrance the iniquity, that they may be taken.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 21:23. It’s a pretty serious and important passage about judgment and consequences. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is essentially saying that people who make false predictions or claims – like believing they have special powers or can control events – will be called out and judged by God. It’s a warning against deception and a call for accountability. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Ezekiel 21:23” : This is the verse itself, giving us the context. It’s from a prophecy written by Ezekiel, a prophet in ancient Israel. “And it shall be unto them as a false divination in their sight…” – This is key. “Divination” means making predictions or claims about the future that aren't based on real knowledge or truth. It’s like building a house on sand – it won’t hold up. “to them that have sworn oaths…” : This refers to people who have made promises or commitments, often in secret or with a specific purpose. They've essentially said something they couldn’t guarantee. Think of someone making a promise to help someone but then backing out at the last minute. “…but he will call to remembrance the iniquity…” – “Iniquity” is a strong word meaning "evil deeds," "sin," or "moral failings." This refers to their actions that are wrong and harmful. It’s not just about bad behavior, but about things that are inherently immoral and against God's will. “…that they may be taken.” – This means that those who are called out for these false claims and actions will be dealt with. It suggests a judgment or consequence follows. So, putting it all together: Ezekiel 21:23 is telling us that people who rely on lies and deceptive promises will face God’s judgment. They'll be called out for their deception, and God will use this as a way to hold them accountable for their actions and to protect the innocent. It emphasizes the importance of truthfulness and honesty. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a foreshadowing of the coming destruction of Israel, though it’s important to remember that Ezekiel was writing about a specific historical context and didn't predict a literal apocalypse in its entirety. Resources for Further Understanding: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/Ezekiel%2021%3A23](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/Ezekiel%2021%3A23) - This website provides context and translations of the verse. Bible Study Resources: [https://www.biblestudy.org/](https://www.biblestudy.org/) – Offers summaries and explanations of biblical passages. Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss its connection to other Bible stories? Provide a simpler analogy to help you understand it?

Definition: Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Because ye have made your iniquity to be remembered, in that your transgressions are discovered, so that in all your doings your sins do appear; because, [I say], that ye are come to remembrance, ye shall be taken with the hand.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 21:24. It's a pretty serious and impactful statement about God’s judgment. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse essentially says that God is watching what we do and that He sees our sins. It’s a warning about the consequences of our actions. Let’s unpack it word by word: “Ezekiel 21:24 Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD;” - This establishes who is speaking – God Himself. It's a formal declaration. “Because ye have made your iniquity to be remembered…” - “Iniquity” means our sins, wrongdoings, and imperfections. "Made" here means we’ve done them. So, this part says God has noticed our bad deeds. “in that your transgressions are discovered…” – “Transgressions” is a fancy word for sins – things we've broken the rules of. Discovering these sins means God is revealing them to us. “so that in all your doings your sins do appear;” - This emphasizes that our actions, every single thing we do, are now open to God’s scrutiny. It's not just about some specific wrongdoings, but every action we take. “because, [I say], that ye are come to remembrance, ye shall be taken with the hand.” - This is a powerful image. “Come to remembrance” means being noticed or known. "Taken with the hand" is a metaphorical way of saying we’re going to be held accountable – we'll be brought before God and face consequences for our actions. It suggests that our sin will not just be hidden, but will be revealed in a way that puts us under His judgment. What does it mean practically? The verse speaks about a future time when God will examine all of humanity. He’ll look at every single action we take, and He’ll bring those actions into light. It's a sobering reminder that our choices have consequences and that there will be a reckoning for our sins. Important Note: This is a very poetic and symbolic passage. It doesn’t necessarily mean every person will be punished in the same way, but it signifies that God will ultimately hold everyone accountable for their actions. --- To help me explain this verse better to you, could you tell me: What specifically are you finding confusing about it? (e.g., the imagery, the meaning of "iniquity," etc.) What’s your current understanding of these concepts?

Definition: And thou, profane wicked prince of Israel, whose day is come, when iniquity [shall have] an end,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 21:25. It’s a pretty serious and impactful statement about the future. Here's a simple explanation: What it means: This verse speaks about a time when Israel (meaning the nation of Israel) will be severely punished for their wickedness. The key word here is “iniquity.” Let’s unpack that: Iniquity: This is a Latin term meaning "sin" or "unrighteousness." It refers to a state of moral corruption and wrongdoing – things like greed, dishonesty, violence, and disregard for God's laws. Think of it as a time when people have fallen short of their moral obligations. “Shall have an end”: This is the crucial part. The verse says that "iniquity shall have an end.” It means that this period of wickedness will eventually cease. It’s not about a complete ending, but rather a gradual fading away of the problem. So, putting it all together, here's what Ezekiel is saying: “You, the wicked prince of Israel, who has been causing sin and corruption for too long – your time is coming when you’ve reached a point where you're no longer able to continue with this behavior – will eventually be brought to an end.” What does it mean about Israel? Ezekiel was essentially warning the Israelites that they were in a state of moral decay. It suggests that they had been practicing injustice and wickedness for a long time, and that their continued existence would lead to devastating consequences. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a prophecy of judgment, but it's also seen as a call to repentance – a plea for change and a chance for restoration. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Talk about what this verse might mean in terms of our own lives?

Definition: Thus saith the Lord GOD; Remove the diadem, and take off the crown: this [shall] not [be] the same: exalt [him that is] low, and abase [him that is] high.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 21:26. It’s a really powerful and complex image, but we can understand it in simpler terms. Here's the explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a very serious punishment for those who are arrogant and disrespectful to God. It’s about shifting power and status – essentially, turning someone down or making them feel insignificant. Let’s unpack each part: “Thus saith the Lord GOD…” - This is just setting the stage – it's a direct message from God. “…Remove the diadem…” - "Diadem" means a crown, a garland, or a symbol of honor. In this context, it refers to a specific crown or regal symbol worn by a king or ruler. “…and take off the crown: this [shall] not be the same:” – This is the core of the verse. The crown is being removed . It's crucial that we understand what "this" refers to. “exalt [him that is] low, and abase [him that is] high.” - This means that the punishment isn’t just about removing a crown; it's about fundamentally changing someone's position in society – making them less important or powerful than they were before. It’s about reversing their status. What does this mean practically? The verse speaks of a time when a powerful ruler (represented by the crown) is treated unfairly and becomes humiliated. The punishment isn't just about being angry; it's about deliberately making someone feel worthless and diminished. Important Context - It’s about Judgment: This verse is often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of pride and vanity in humanity. It suggests that humans are prone to seeking their own glory, which can lead to rebellion and ultimately, God’s judgment. It's a reminder that true worth comes from serving God, not from self-importance. In short, this verse paints a picture of a situation where someone who is overstepping their boundaries or acting with arrogance will be punished by being deliberately made to feel insignificant. --- Disclaimer: I am an AI Chatbot and not a religious expert. This explanation is based on interpretations of biblical texts and should not be taken as definitive religious doctrine. Would you like me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss the historical context surrounding this passage? Provide a different interpretation of the verse?

Definition: I will overturn, overturn, overturn, it: and it shall be no [more], until he come whose right it is; and I will give it [him].

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 21:27. It's a pretty serious and impactful statement about judgment and consequences. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse essentially says that God is going to completely undo everything that is wrong or unjust in the world. He intends to restore things to their original, righteous state, even if it takes a very long time. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “I will overturn, overturn, overturn…” : This part emphasizes a complete and radical shift. It’s not just about making things slightly different; God is saying he will completely change everything. “…it: and it shall be no [more]” : This is the crucial part. "It" refers to something that is currently wrong or unjust, like wickedness, evil deeds, or broken promises. This phrase means “until it ceases to exist.” It’s a promise of an end to this wrongdoing. “and I will give it [him]” : This is where the consequence comes in. "It" refers back to the thing God is overturning. He is going to give it back to someone – often interpreted as giving it back to those who have wronged him or his people. What does this mean practically? Historically, this verse has been interpreted as a prophecy about the coming of Christ and the final judgment of humanity. It suggests that after a period of wickedness, God will ultimately punish those who have disobeyed Him and caused harm. Important Context (briefly): Ezekiel 21 is a vision in which God speaks to Ezekiel, urging him to see the future consequences of Israel’s disobedience. The verse highlights that God's judgment isn’t just about punishing individuals; it’s about restoring everything to its original state of righteousness. In short, this verse warns against injustice and promises God's ultimate restoration and judgment when those who have strayed from the path fail to do so. --- Disclaimer: I am an AI Chatbot and not a religious scholar. This explanation is based on common interpretations of biblical texts. If you want a deeper understanding, I recommend consulting with a religious leader or expert. Would you like me to: Explain another part of Ezekiel 21? Discuss the historical context of this verse?

Definition: And thou, son of man, prophesy and say, Thus saith the Lord GOD concerning the Ammonites, and concerning their reproach; even say thou, The sword, the sword [is] drawn: for the slaughter [it is] furbished, to consume because of the glittering:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly powerful verse from Ezekiel 21:28. It's a really significant and dramatic passage about judgment and consequences. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes a devastating event – the destruction of a large group of Ammonites (a people in ancient Israel) due to God’s wrath. It’s not just a simple battle; it's a deliberate and awful judgment. Let's unpack it word by word: “Ezekiel 21:28” : This is the verse itself – we’re looking at a specific part of Ezekiel’s prophetic writings in the Bible. “And thou, son of man, prophesy and say…” - This tells us that Ezekiel, who is speaking as God himself, is giving a prophecy. “Son of Man” refers to Jesus Christ – the central figure of this passage. “…Thus saith the Lord GOD concerning the Ammonites…” : This is the beginning of the message. God is directly addressing the Ammonites. “and concerning the Ammonites” : The verse focuses on a specific group of people - the Ammonites. “even say thou, The sword, the sword [is] drawn: for the slaughter [it is] furbished…” – This is the really important part. God says that He (the Lord) has deliberately and forcefully prepared to “furbish” or "prepare" a slaughter. Let's break down this phrase: “The sword, the sword [is] drawn” : This is a powerful metaphor. It means God has already begun using His power – the Sword of Justice – to destroy them. He’s actively and purposefully setting the stage for violence. "for the slaughter [it is] furbished…” : “Furbish” means to prepare, to strengthen, or to intensify something. So, it means He is preparing a terrible event – a massive, deliberate slaughter. “It is furbished” is like setting up a weapon for an attack. What does this mean in a broader sense? This verse speaks to a very serious theme: God's judgment against those who are wicked and disrespectful. It’s not just about random violence; it’s about a deliberate, focused punishment. It suggests that God sees the Ammonites as a symbol of something larger – perhaps a nation or people who have been defiant or ungrateful to Him. Why is this important? This passage is considered one of the most shocking and terrifying parts of Ezekiel's prophecy. It’s a reminder that: God is just and righteous. He will hold those accountable for their actions. His judgment can be severe, but it is ultimately a way of restoring balance to the world. In short: Ezekiel 21:28 describes a planned and intense attack against the Ammonites, highlighting God's wrath and His willingness to punish wickedness. It’s a powerful message about justice and divine sovereignty. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Connect this verse to other Bible stories or themes (like repentance)?