Definition: And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important passage from the Book of Jude. It’s a really powerful and somewhat unsettling verse. Here's an explanation, aiming for clarity and understanding: What it says: “And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day.” Let's unpack each part: “The angels which kept not their first estate…” – This refers to angels – those heavenly beings who serve God. It’s a bit unusual to say "kept not" because angels are generally thought of as being perfect and obedient. “…but left their own habitation…” - Angels were created with a specific purpose, a “habitation” which is like a home or place of belonging. Leaving this habitation means they chose to do something different – perhaps to wander around, or engage in activities that contradict God’s plan. What does "first estate" mean? – This is where it gets deeper. The Bible describes angels as having three distinct roles: First Angel: The creator of the universe and all things. Second Angel: A witness who saw the creation unfold. Third Angel: The one who will judge all people. So, what’s happening here? – Jude is saying that some angels, those who didn't follow God’s original plan, chose to disobey him. They left their designated roles and wandered away from their purpose. “He hath reserved in everlasting chains…” - This is the most striking part. "Everlasting chains" suggests a very long time – perhaps eternity. It means they are bound to eternal punishment or separation from God. “…under darkness unto the judgment of the great day.” – This describes their fate: Under Darkness: They are in a state of obscurity, without light or understanding. They're trapped and unable to see clearly. To the Judgment of the Great Day: The “great day” is a significant period of time in the future when God will judge all people. This refers to the final judgment that awaits everyone, regardless of their actions before this point. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: This verse speaks about the consequences of disobedience and choosing to stray from God’s will. It’s a warning about the importance of following God's instructions and resisting temptation. It suggests that those who refuse to obey divine guidance can face significant suffering or eternal separation. Important Note: This is a complex passage with a lot of symbolic meaning, and it's often interpreted as a prophecy about the end times. It’s not meant to be taken literally, but rather as a reflection of the consequences of rejecting God’s authority. --- Do you want me to: Explain any specific part in more detail? Provide some context about what Jude 1:6 was written about ? Offer a brief summary of the overall message of this verse?