Definition: Then shall they begin to say to the mountains, Fall on us; and to the hills, Cover us.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly powerful verse from Luke 23:30. It's a really striking image, and it speaks to a profound shift in perspective. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Core Idea: When Jesus was crucified, he wasn’t just dying; he was causing something terrible to happen. He was setting in motion a process of devastating destruction. Let’s unpack the imagery: “Then shall they begin…” : This isn't about someone starting to do something. It’s about something already happening, a natural consequence of Jesus’ death and suffering. “…to the mountains…” : The mountains are large and imposing – they represent stability, strength, and even the world itself. Their destruction signifies a collapse of everything we take for granted. “…and to the hills, Cover us.” : This is the most dramatic part. The hills are soft and yielding, representing the natural world - land, water, forests. “Cover us” means to completely engulf or overwhelm them. What does this mean practically? The verse describes a catastrophic event where God’s wrath – his intense anger and displeasure – is unleashed upon the earth. It's like a massive, unstoppable storm of destruction. It suggests that: God sees injustice: Jesus was unjustly killed, and his death has triggered a reaction against evil. The world is vulnerable: The earth is susceptible to God’s judgment. There’s a consequence for sin: Jesus' death represents a fundamental shift in the relationship between humanity and God – a turning point where we are held accountable for our wrongdoing. It’s a powerful metaphor for suffering and justice. It speaks to the idea that God can bring about terrible consequences when injustice prevails. In short, Luke 23:30 describes a dramatic outpouring of God's wrath upon those who have wronged him, resulting in widespread devastation. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the symbolism behind this image? Talk about how this verse connects with other biblical stories (like the Flood)?