Definition: But I will remove far off from you the northern [army], and will drive him into a land barren and desolate, with his face toward the east sea, and his hinder part toward the utmost sea, and his stink shall come up, and his ill savour shall come up, because he hath done great things.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joel 2:20. It’s a really significant prophecy about a period of intense upheaval in Israel. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a massive and devastating event – a complete destruction and removal of the northern army – that will result in a desolate and unpleasant place for them. Let’s unpack it part by part: “But I will remove far off from you…” - This means God is actively stopping the northern army from going to war, or at least severely limiting their actions. It's not just a general warning; it signifies a deliberate action against them. “…and drive him into a land barren and desolate…” – This refers to a region of the Middle East that’s currently inhabited by Israel. This area will be transformed into an empty, lifeless place – a desert wasteland. It's a picture of utter ruin. "...with his face toward the east sea, and his hinder part toward the utmost sea…” - This is a very specific geographical description. The "east sea" refers to the Mediterranean Sea. “His hinder part” means the southern part of the land. So, it’s talking about a region in the East that’s being drastically reshaped. "...and his stink shall come up, and his ill savour shall come up…” - This is a powerful image. "Stink" represents something unpleasant, corrupting, and morally wrong. “Ill savour” refers to a poisonous or decaying presence – a feeling of sickness and decay that permeates the land. "...because he hath done great things.” - This is the key takeaway. The Northern army's actions are so significant that God is punishing them for their actions. It’s a consequence of a major transgression, or perhaps a period of great wickedness. What does it mean in terms of history? Historically, this verse is often interpreted as referring to the Babylonian exile – the destruction of Jerusalem and the northern kingdom under Assyrian rule. It describes the devastation caused by the Babylonian conquest and the subsequent loss of Israel's land. Important Note: It’s crucial to understand that this prophecy isn’t about a literal future event. It’s a symbolic representation of a time of great suffering and judgment for those who have disobeyed God’s commands. It speaks to the consequences of sin and the need for repentance. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part in more detail? Give you some examples of what this verse might symbolize? Explore a different biblical passage that deals with similar themes (like judgment or repentance)?