Definition: Then said he unto me, The iniquity of the house of Israel and Judah [is] exceeding great, and the land is full of blood, and the city full of perverseness: for they say, The LORD hath forsaken the earth, and the LORD seeth not.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Ezekiel 9:9. It’s a really important and somewhat sobering verse in the Bible. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse paints a picture of deep sin and wickedness among the Israelites (and Judah) – a nation that seems to be constantly falling into bad things. Let’s unpack each part: “Then said he unto me…” : This is a very unusual and dramatic way for God to communicate. It suggests a direct, personal address to Ezekiel, who was a prophet at the time. “…The iniquity of the house of Israel and Judah [is] exceeding great…” : “Iniquity” means sin or wickedness – basically, all the bad things they’ve done. “House of Israel and Judah” refers specifically to the Israelites, who were the people God promised to bless. The phrase "exceeding great" emphasizes how serious this is. It's like saying their sins are incredibly widespread and damaging. “…and the land is full of blood…” : This isn’t just about a few individual acts of violence; it means the entire land – its soil, its people, its resources – is soaked in bloodshed. It’s a metaphor for constant conflict and tragedy. “…and the city full of perverseness: for they say, The LORD hath forsaken the earth, and the LORD seeth not.” : This is the most complex part. “They say…” : This refers to the Israelites themselves. They are blaming God! “…The LORD hath forsaken the earth…” : This is a HUGE statement. It means God has abandoned or neglected the world entirely. He’s not actively helping or protecting people. “and the LORD seeth not” : This is the crucial part. It suggests that God does see, but he doesn't intervene to stop the wickedness. He’s letting it continue without any consequence. Overall Meaning & Significance: This verse is a warning and a lament. It conveys a sense of profound despair about the state of Israel. It suggests: A Broken Covenant: God had a covenant (a promise) with the Israelites, and they have broken that promise by consistently choosing to do wrong. God’s Displeasure: The verse expresses God's deep disappointment in his people. Lack of Guidance: There’s a feeling of being lost and without direction – God isn’t guiding them toward righteousness. In essence, Ezekiel 9:9 is a dramatic declaration that the Israelites are deeply flawed and their actions are causing immense suffering. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific historical event or biblical story? Discuss the possible interpretations of this passage?