Definition: But the cormorant and the bittern shall possess it; the owl also and the raven shall dwell in it: and he shall stretch out upon it the line of confusion, and the stones of emptiness.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 34:11. It's a pretty poetic and symbolic passage about a significant change and transformation happening. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes a dramatic shift where something completely changes, and that change is bringing about confusion and emptiness. Let's unpack the parts: "But the Cormorant and the bittern shall possess it..." : Cormorants and bitterns are birds known for being quite aggressive and territorial. So, this suggests a disruption or upheaval in the area. They’re taking control of something. "...the owl also and the raven shall dwell in it:" : Owls and ravens are also known for their intelligence and ability to see things from a distance. This implies that these birds will be observing and manipulating the situation, potentially creating chaos or disrupting established order. "And he shall stretch out upon it the line of confusion..." : “Line of confusion” is a really important word here. It means something will become disordered, unclear, and unpredictable. It’s not just about a little bit of mess; it's about a fundamental shift in how things work. "...and the stones of emptiness." : This is the most evocative part. "Stones of emptiness" suggests that this change will remove solid foundations or stability. It's not about physical emptiness, but rather a lack of truth, certainty, or established order. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: Isaiah 34:11 describes a period of significant upheaval and transformation. It’s like a storm is brewing – something powerful is about to come into play that will fundamentally alter the landscape. This isn't necessarily a bad thing; it could be a cleansing or a rebirth, but right now, it feels like chaos and uncertainty are rapidly approaching. Think of it this way: It’s like a building being torn down and rebuilt – there will be instability initially, but the new structure will ultimately be stronger and more complete. Important Note: This is a complex verse, and different interpretations exist. The meaning often depends on the context of the larger biblical narrative. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Explore its symbolism further (e.g., relating it to other parts of the Bible)? Give a brief summary of what the verse is saying about the future?