Definition: Yea also, because he transgresseth by wine, [he is] a proud man, neither keepeth at home, who enlargeth his desire as hell, and [is] as death, and cannot be satisfied, but gathereth unto him all nations, and heapeth unto him all people:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Habakkuk 2:5. It’s a really powerful and thought-provoking passage that deals with a sense of overwhelming negativity and potential destruction. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that someone who drinks too much wine – or engages in behaviors that lead to excessive pride and desire – is dangerously unbalanced and destined for a terrible fate. It's like a runaway train heading straight towards disaster. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Habakkuk 2:5” : This refers to a prophet named Habakkuk in the book of Habakkuk. It’s a very important and somewhat mysterious passage. “Yea also, because he transgresseth by wine…” : "Transgresseth" means to break or violate a rule. “By wine” is key here – it suggests excessive drinking. This isn't just a little bit of alcohol; it implies a significant amount that’s causing problems. “[he is] a proud man, neither keepeth at home…” : This is the crucial part. "Proud" means feeling self-important and lacking humility. “Neither keepeth at home” means he doesn't share his desires or ambitions with anyone. He’s hoarding them all for himself. “…who enlargeth his desire as hell…” : This is a very vivid image. “Enlargeth” means to fill up, to make something bigger and more intense. "As hell" is a powerful metaphor – it suggests this excessive desire is so overwhelming that it’s like being consumed by it, leading to suffering and destruction. It's a terrifying picture of being trapped in an endless, consuming passion. “…and [is] as death…” : This reinforces the idea of impending doom. "Death" represents the ultimate consequence of this unchecked desire - a complete loss of life and happiness. “but gathereth unto him all nations, and heapeth unto him all people:” : This is where it gets even more dramatic. "Gathereth" means to collect or accumulate. “All nations” – meaning everyone on Earth – implies a global impact. "Heapeth" - means to pile up. This shows that this person’s desire is so powerful, it's consuming everything around them! It’s creating a massive, overwhelming accumulation of people and things. Overall Meaning & Significance: The verse warns against unchecked pride and ambition. It suggests that when we become consumed by our own desires – especially those fueled by excessive indulgence like alcohol – we risk becoming destructive, isolated, and ultimately, doomed to fail. It’s a warning about the dangers of focusing on things outside ourselves and losing sight of God's will. In short: This verse paints a picture of someone who is so consumed by their own desires that they become a threat to everyone around them - a potential source of chaos and destruction. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in a different way? Connect it to a specific biblical story or theme?