Definition: And they shall dwell safely therein, and shall build houses, and plant vineyards; yea, they shall dwell with confidence, when I have executed judgments upon all those that despise them round about them; and they shall know that I [am] the LORD their God.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 28:26. It's a pretty powerful message about God’s care for his people. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God is protecting His people with a strong and secure place – a “dwelling” – and offering them a future filled with peace and prosperity. He’s choosing to keep them safe and helping them thrive. Let's unpack it word by word: “And they shall dwell safely therein, and shall build houses…” - This means God is providing a secure and comfortable place for His people to live. It's not just about physical shelter; it’s about a sense of safety and stability. Think of it like a haven. “…and plant vineyards; yea, they shall dwell with confidence…” – “Vineyards” are fields where grapes grow. This suggests that God is providing for His people in a way that allows them to flourish and live a good life. “With confidence” means they’ll be secure, confident in their future, and not afraid. “When I have executed judgments upon all those that despise them round about them;” - This is the crucial part. "Judgments" are God's punishments or corrections for people who are unkind or disrespectful to him. The phrase “round about them” means He’s looking out for everyone. “And they shall know that I [am] the LORD their God.” – Finally, this emphasizes that God is in control and that He is the one who is making these judgments. It's a declaration of authority and faithfulness. Overall Meaning: Basically, God is offering His people a future where they are protected, have opportunities to grow, and know that He is ultimately in charge. It’s a promise of safety, prosperity, and divine protection. Think of it like this: God is creating a strong foundation for His people – a place where they can thrive and feel secure because He is watching over them. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain the concept of "judgments" in more depth? Talk about the symbolism behind the vineyards/vineyards?