Definition: Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Woe to the bloody city! I will even make the pile for fire great.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from Ezekiel 24:9. It’s a really powerful and dramatic verse with a lot of symbolism. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: This verse comes from a vision that Ezekiel had while he was in exile in Babylon. He saw a terrifying scene – a city being consumed by fire, and the Lord God is actively causing this destruction. Let's unpack each part: “Ezekiel 24:9 Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD;” - This establishes that we’re talking to God directly, and it’s a serious message from him. “Woe to the bloody city!” – This is the core of the verse. “Woe” means sorrow or misfortune. "Bloody" suggests violence and death. It's a harsh description of a place that has been ravaged by evil. “I will even make the pile for fire great.” - This is where it gets really intense. The Lord God isn’t just causing the city to burn down. He’s actively preparing it for a massive, devastating fire. He’s piling up materials – like stones and wood – specifically to create a huge inferno. What does this mean in terms of bigger picture? This verse is often interpreted as a warning about: The consequences of sin: The city represents humanity, and the fiery destruction symbolizes the judgment that God will bring upon those who have disobeyed him. God’s justice: It shows that God is righteous and will punish evil with terrible force. A divine plan for purification: While it looks destructive, this verse also points to a larger purpose. The fire isn't just random destruction; it’s a cleansing process – burning away the impurities and corrupting influences of the city. It’s like God is preparing the earth to be renewed with fresh life. Important Note: The exact meaning of this verse has been debated throughout history, and different interpretations exist. It's a complex passage that speaks to profound themes about judgment, repentance, and divine sovereignty. --- To help me explain it even better for you , could you tell me: What specifically are you curious about? (e.g., Do you want a more detailed explanation of the imagery, or are you wondering about its theological significance?)