Definition: Why do we sit still? assemble yourselves, and let us enter into the defenced cities, and let us be silent there: for the LORD our God hath put us to silence, and given us water of gall to drink, because we have sinned against the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 8:14. It’s a really important and challenging passage about sin and judgment. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that we are responsible for our own problems. God has set us up in a situation where we need to be quiet and avoid causing trouble, and he’s giving us water to drink – essentially, a painful punishment – because we've messed up. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Jeremiah 8:14 Why do we sit still? assemble yourselves…” - This is a direct question from Jeremiah, the prophet, asking why people shouldn't be actively involved in fighting or causing trouble. He wants them to just be quiet . “…and let us enter into the defenced cities, and let us be silent there: for the LORD our God hath put us to silence, and given us water of gall to drink…” - This is where it gets more profound. “Defended cities” : This suggests a situation where people are actively fighting or battling against God’s will. “Be silent there” : This means we need to not participate in those conflicts, to avoid causing trouble and being punished. It's about avoiding getting involved in something that is wrong. “Water of gall to drink” : This is a powerful metaphor. Water symbolizes cleansing or punishment. "Gall" is a bitter, unpleasant liquid – it’s a strong, painful punishment. So, the whole verse basically means: God has given us a difficult situation where we need to remain silent and avoid causing trouble because we've made mistakes that He considers unacceptable. He’s punishing us with this “water of gall” as a consequence for our sin. Important Context (Briefly): This passage comes from Jeremiah’s prophetic writings, which are part of the Old Testament. It was written during a time when Israel was facing a serious crisis and was deeply rebellious against God. It's often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of pride and defiance against God. In a nutshell: God is setting us up to face consequences for our sin, and we need to be quiet and avoid causing trouble so that He can ultimately forgive us (though it might not seem like it at the time!). --- Do you want me to explain any of these parts in more detail, perhaps relating them to a specific biblical story or concept? For example, would you like me to: Explain the context of this verse within the larger history of Israel and their relationship with God? Discuss the idea of “sin” and its consequences?