Definition: I went down to the bottoms of the mountains; the earth with her bars [was] about me for ever: yet hast thou brought up my life from corruption, O LORD my God.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jonah 2:6. It's a really powerful and intriguing passage! Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Jonah was sent out to the sea by God to run away from his obedience. He ran for 93 days, and God called him back. But he stubbornly refused to obey and drifted far off course. Eventually, God sent a great storm that swallowed his boat whole! What the Verse Means: “I went down to the bottoms of the mountains; the earth with her bars [was] about me for ever” : This is where it gets a little poetic. Jonah was in a very deep, dark, and isolated place – essentially, he was buried under the sea! The “bars” represent the vastness of the ocean and God’s protection. He felt completely trapped and overwhelmed by the power of the sea. It's like saying he was lost and facing impossible odds. “Yet hast thou brought up my life from corruption, O LORD my God.” : This is the core of the verse. Jonah is still praising God because He’s been rescued! He acknowledges that God has not only saved him but has also protected his life from being corrupted or ruined. "Corruption" in this context means he had strayed and disobeyed God, and now he's found a way to be protected. Overall Meaning & Significance: This verse is a profound expression of repentance and gratitude . It’s a powerful message about: God's Protection: It shows that God actively protects those who are in need of His care. Acknowledging Sin: Jonah recognizes his own wrongdoing ( disobeying God) and humbly acknowledges God's grace in rescuing him. Faith & Trust: It emphasizes the importance of trusting in God, even when things seem hopeless. In short, it’s a statement of incredible gratitude – acknowledging that despite being lost and facing great danger, God has miraculously saved him and protected his life. --- Would you like me to: Explain another part of Jonah 2? Discuss the symbolism of the sea? Explore why this verse is important in biblical storytelling?