Definition: Then Pashur smote Jeremiah the prophet, and put him in the stocks that [were] in the high gate of Benjamin, which [was] by the house of the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Jeremiah 20:2. It’s a really important and somewhat unsettling part of the book. Here's what it means, explained simply: What happened? Jeremiah was a prophet – someone who spoke words that God gave to tell people about His will and how things are going. This verse describes a violent act against him. Pashur, a powerful official in the temple, smote Jeremiah with a blow. He then placed him in a stock (a kind of jail cell) in a gate that led to the house of God – specifically, the Temple in Jerusalem. What does it mean? Smote: This word means to strike or inflict harm. It’s a harsh and forceful action. Put him in the stocks: This describes how Jeremiah was imprisoned. High gate of Benjamin: The "high gate" refers to a specific part of the Temple, which is considered sacred and important. Benjamin was a prominent leader within the Temple. By the house of God: This emphasizes that Jeremiah was placed in a place where he felt connected to something holy and divine – the very heart of the Temple. Why is this significant? This verse is often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of political corruption and the potential for evil within the temple itself. It suggests that Pashur wasn’t just striking Jeremiah; he was actively attempting to corrupt or harm him, potentially endangering the spiritual well-being of the people. Important Note: The exact reason Pashur did this is debated among theologians. Some believe it was a deliberate act of rebellion against God, while others suggest it was a consequence of Pashur’s own ambition and desire for power. It's a complex and challenging passage that continues to spark discussion and interpretation. In short: Jeremiah was imprisoned in a place near the Temple, and Pashur intentionally harmed him with a blow, suggesting a serious threat to the spiritual integrity of Jerusalem. --- Do you want me to explain any specific part of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like to know: More about the context of Jeremiah’s situation? The different interpretations of the event?