Definition: For as the girdle cleaveth to the loins of a man, so have I caused to cleave unto me the whole house of Israel and the whole house of Judah, saith the LORD; that they might be unto me for a people, and for a name, and for a praise, and for a glory: but they would not hear.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Jeremiah 13:11. It’s a really important and somewhat unsettling passage about God’s plan for Israel. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: God is saying that He’s deliberately setting up a system – a “girdle” – to connect with and guide the entire nation of Israel and Judah (the two kingdoms). But this system isn't working because they don’t want to listen to Him. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Jeremiah 13:11 For as the girdle cleaveth unto the loins of a man…” – This is a poetic metaphor. Think of a girdle like a wrap around your waist. God is saying that He is the "girdle" that connects and controls this entire nation. “…so have I caused to cleave unto me the whole house of Israel and the whole house of Judah…” – This means God has deliberately, purposefully, and intentionally arranged things so that He’s linked with these two groups – Israel and Judah. He's making them part of him . “ saith the LORD; that they might be unto me for a people, for a name, and for a praise, and for a glory…” – This is where it gets powerful. God is saying: “I’m setting these groups up so that they become His people, to have a special name, and to receive praise from Him.” He envisions them as being focused on Him . “but they would not hear.” – This is the crucial part. God has set this system in place, but he's not allowing them to listen to Him. They’re resisting his guidance and purpose. What does it mean practically? The verse paints a picture of a nation struggling with idolatry (worshiping other things instead of God). It suggests that this system was created as a way for God to guide them, to lead them towards righteousness and faithfulness. But because they refused to listen to His voice, He’s essentially setting them up for failure – to stray from the path He wants them to take. Important Context: This verse appears in the Old Testament, specifically during a time of growing division and rebellion within Israel. It's often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of ignoring God’s message and choosing instead to follow their own desires. In short, this is a story about divine intention and resistance – a situation where God's plan for his people is thwarted because they refuse to heed His voice. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Discuss why this verse is significant in biblical history? Talk about how this relates to other stories in the Bible?