Definition: I say, [sayest thou], (but [they are but] vain words) [I have] counsel and strength for war: now on whom dost thou trust, that thou rebellest against me?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 36:5. It’s a really powerful and dramatic passage about God’s plan to defeat his enemies. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about God’s confidence in victory and a challenge to his opponents. He’s saying, “I know I have the strength and wisdom to win this battle.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “I say, [sayest thou]” : This is a formal way of addressing someone – like a king or leader. It suggests a serious conversation. “[but they are but] vain words” : This is crucial. God isn't saying these words are actually true. They’re just empty, misleading talk. He’s acknowledging that their words might be used to try to trick him. “[I have] counsel and strength for war” : This means he has a plan and the power to succeed. He’s prepared and ready to fight. “Now on whom dost thou trust, that thou rebellest against me?” : This is the core of the verse. He's asking someone to trust him completely. It's a test – he wants to know if they believe in his power and will stand up to him. What’s it really saying? Essentially, Isaiah 36:5 is a declaration of God’s intent to fight. He’s not just planning to win; he’s confident that he will. He's presenting this challenge as a test – “Will you trust me and stand with me against your enemies?” Why is it significant? This passage is often interpreted as a foreshadowing of the events surrounding the Jewish exile in Babylon (a time of great persecution). It suggests that God’s plan to deliver his people was unfolding, and he was preparing for a significant conflict. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Discuss its connection to other biblical stories? Give you some context about the time it was written?