Definition: And I will cause them to be removed into all kingdoms of the earth, because of Manasseh the son of Hezekiah king of Judah, for [that] which he did in Jerusalem.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 15:4. It’s a really important and complex passage about a significant event in Israel's history. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a terrible mistake made by Manasseh, the son of Hezekiah, King of Judah. His actions caused a huge amount of suffering and disruption across the entire world. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And I will cause them to be removed into all kingdoms of the earth…” – This is a dramatic statement. It means that Manasseh’s actions were so damaging that they spread everywhere . Think of it like a wildfire - it spreads quickly and affects everything it touches. "Kingdoms" in this context refers to nations, empires, and regions. “…because of Manasseh the son of Hezekiah king of Judah…” – This identifies the person who made the mistake: Manasseh. He was a King of Judah. “for [that] which he did in Jerusalem.” - This is the key . It’s about what Manasseh did in Jerusalem. He made a very unpopular and destructive decision. What exactly did Manasseh do? The text doesn't say exactly what he did, but it describes a massive and damaging act. It involved: Destroying the Temple: He ordered the destruction of the First Temple in Jerusalem – the most sacred place for Jewish worship. This was a HUGE deal. Changing Laws & Practices: He enacted laws that went against God’s commandments and encouraged idolatry (worship of other gods). Making Deals with Foreign Powers: He made alliances with foreign nations, which caused conflict and instability. The Overall Message – It's about Consequences The verse is a warning about the dangers of disobedience and the importance of following God’s instructions. It highlights that even seemingly small or impulsive actions can have devastating consequences across vast areas. It emphasizes that God holds people accountable for their choices. In short, Jeremiah 15:4 describes a significant tragedy caused by Manasseh's actions in Jerusalem, which resulted in widespread disruption and suffering. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these points in more detail? Provide context about the time period when this verse was written (historical background)? Offer a different way to interpret the verse (e.g., focusing on the theme of repentance)?