Definition: Mark me, and be astonished, and lay [your] hand upon [your] mouth.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly powerful verse from Job 21:5. It’s a really striking statement about God’s perspective on our situation. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: God is saying, “I am watching you very closely. I’m noticing everything you do, and I’m deeply impressed by your actions. I’m also feeling a sense of overwhelming astonishment at how you handle things.” Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Job 21:5” : This refers to a passage in the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) that describes a conversation between Job and God. "Mark me..." : This is the crucial part. It means “I am observing you with intense attention.” It's not just a casual glance; it’s a focused, detailed observation of your choices and actions. "...and be astonished..." : This highlights that God isn’t simply impressed; he’s genuinely astonished . He recognizes the depth of your character, your resilience, or perhaps even your wisdom. It suggests a sense of wonder at your ability to face challenges. "...and lay [your] hand upon [your] mouth." : This is a very metaphorical phrase. It's like God is physically placing his hand on your side, signifying a feeling of complete surprise and shock. It’s a gesture of profound understanding and disbelief at your strength or the situation you’re facing. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: The verse speaks to the idea that God doesn’t just passively observe us. He actively sees our struggles and triumphs. It's a statement about divine judgment, but it’s also a recognition of profound grace and power in your character. It suggests: God sees beyond our efforts: He isn't just concerned with the outcome; he's fascinated by how you react to difficulties. He is impressed by your strength: It implies that God values your resilience, your courage, and your ability to persevere despite hardship. A humbling experience: It can be interpreted as a moment of realization – a reminder of our own limitations and the potential for something greater than ourselves. In short, it’s a powerful expression of God's unwavering attention and admiration for you. Where does this verse come from? This is one of the most famous verses in the Bible and has been interpreted in various ways throughout history. It’s often seen as a response to Job’s suffering and a reflection on the nature of God’s relationship with humanity. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with other examples from the Bible? Discuss its meaning in the context of specific biblical stories or characters?