Definition: But if thou wilt not go forth to the king of Babylon’s princes, then shall this city be given into the hand of the Chaldeans, and they shall burn it with fire, and thou shalt not escape out of their hand.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 38:18. It’s a really serious warning about a potential disaster. Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is telling us that if we don't go to Babylon (a city in Persia) and confront the Chaldean rulers – the people who rule there – then the city will be destroyed by fire. It’s a very clear threat. Let’s break it down piece by piece: “But if thou wilt not go forth…” : This is a crucial part. It's about action . You can’t just passively wait for things to happen. You need to actively choose to do something. “…to the king of Babylon’s princes” : Jeremiah is telling us to go directly to the leaders of Babylon. It’s not enough to simply send envoys or make requests; we need to face them directly. This is a specific, important group of people. “Then shall this city be given into the hand of the Chaldeans…” : “Chaldeans” refers to the Babylonian rulers who are known for their oppressive rule and harsh treatment of the Israelites. This means they will take control of the city. “…and they shall burn it with fire, and thou shalt not escape out of their hand.” : This is the most dramatic part. It predicts a catastrophic event: the city will be engulfed in flames! And you won't be able to escape – you’ll be completely under their control. What does this verse mean in a broader sense? It’s about protection: Jeremiah is warning us that we need to actively defend ourselves against potential threats, especially those who are powerful and unjust. It's about responsibility: It emphasizes the importance of standing up for what’s right and protecting our people – both literally and figuratively. It speaks to judgment: The verse implies a divine judgment is coming on Babylon, and that we must not ignore it. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a prophecy of a devastating siege or war. It's a serious message about the potential for great suffering if we fail to act. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part in more detail? Connect this verse to other stories or themes in the Bible?