Definition: And the Egyptians will I give over into the hand of a cruel lord; and a fierce king shall rule over them, saith the Lord, the LORD of hosts.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 19:4. It's a pretty serious statement about the future of Egypt. Here’s a simple explanation: In essence, this verse means God is going to take over Egypt and make it into a place of suffering and hardship. Let’s unpack it a little more: “And the Egyptians will I give over…” – This is a powerful image. It's not just about a natural disaster; it suggests a deliberate act of God's choosing. “…into the hand of a cruel lord…” - This is where it gets a little more intense. “A cruel lord” implies someone who will be deliberately oppressive and unkind to the Egyptian people. Think of a ruler who actively harms or mistreats their citizens. “The LORD of hosts…” – This is a very formal way of saying God. It emphasizes that this isn’t just any Lord, but the Lord of Hosts - which means the powerful and mighty God. Overall Meaning: Isaiah 19:4 describes a future where Egypt will be ruled by someone who will be harsh and cruel, essentially making it a place of misery and suffering for its people. It’s a warning about potential injustice and oppression. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a prophecy of a devastating period in Egyptian history, possibly involving famine, war, and widespread destruction. However, the exact details are left open to interpretation within the context of biblical prophecy. Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Isaiah? Discuss the symbolism behind this verse (like it relates to a larger historical event)?