Definition: Thus saith the Lord GOD to Tyrus; Shall not the isles shake at the sound of thy fall, when the wounded cry, when the slaughter is made in the midst of thee?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 26:15. It’s a really powerful and somewhat unsettling passage about judgment and responsibility. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse is telling us that God is watching over Tyrus (a city in ancient Greece) and is concerned about the destruction of the city. It’s not just a casual observation; God is actively involved in preventing a devastating event. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Thus saith the Lord GOD to Tyrus…” – This establishes who is speaking - God, specifically through Ezekiel. It’s a formal declaration. “…Shall not the isles shake at the sound of thy fall?” – This is the core of the warning. “Isles” refers to the islands surrounding Tyrus. The phrase "shake" means to tremble or vibrate violently. So, it's saying that the entire archipelago (all the islands) will be affected by the city’s destruction. “When the wounded cry, when the slaughter is made in the midst of thee?” – This gives more detail about what constitutes "fall." It’s not just a physical collapse; it's a metaphorical fall – a collapse of society, a breakdown of order, and a loss of life. "The midst of thee" suggests it's happening within the city itself. What does this mean in a broader sense? This verse speaks to several key themes: Divine Justice: God is not just punishing Tyrus; He’s upholding His justice and ensuring balance in creation. Responsibility: The verse emphasizes that everyone – including the people of Tyrus – has a responsibility to act responsibly and avoid causing harm to themselves and to others. It's about being mindful of consequences. The Importance of Order: God’s concern highlights the importance of maintaining order and stability in the world. Disruption can lead to disaster. Why is it significant? This verse is often interpreted as a warning against complacency, arrogance, and unchecked power. It's a reminder that even powerful individuals are subject to God’s watchful eye and that actions have consequences – both positive and negative. --- To help me explain further or answer any specific questions you might have, let me know: Are you curious about a particular aspect of the verse (e.g., its historical context)? Do you want to explore what this verse is really saying about human responsibility?