Definition: And, lo, a spirit taketh him, and he suddenly crieth out; and it teareth him that he foameth again, and bruising him hardly departeth from him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important passage from Luke 9:39. It's a really striking description of a moment of intense transformation and loss. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a profound experience where Jesus is miraculously brought back from the dead. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And, lo, a spirit taketh him…” – This immediately tells us there's something unusual happening. A spirit (meaning a divine presence or power) is taking Jesus. It’s not just a normal occurrence; it's a significant event. “…and he suddenly crieth out…” – Jesus, who was already dead and seemingly lifeless, immediately cries out – probably in pain or distress. This isn't a quiet moment; it's a forceful expression of something inside him. “And it teareth him that he foameth again…” – This is where the magic happens. The spirit is forcefully pulling Jesus back from his position, causing him to fall and collapse – almost like he’s going flat. “Foaming” suggests a loss of life force or vitality. “…and bruising him hardly departeth from him.” – This is the most impactful part. The spirit isn't just moving him; it bruises him, meaning it causes deep, painful damage. It’s so forceful that Jesus almost seems to be ripped away from his body. It suggests a significant and irreversible change. What does this all mean? This is often interpreted as a symbolic representation of the crucifixion of Jesus. It signifies: Jesus' Sacrifice: The spirit returning him to life is like Jesus’ sacrifice for humanity – offering himself for our sins and problems. The Power of God: It emphasizes that God's power is greater than even death itself. A Moment of Intense Transformation: It shows the profound impact of Jesus on his own life, and the potential for a dramatic shift in fate. Important Note: It’s important to remember this passage is rooted in ancient Jewish tradition and isn’t meant to be taken literally. It's a powerful image designed to convey the importance of Jesus’ death and resurrection as central to Christian faith. --- Do you have any specific questions about this verse that I can help you with? For example, would you like me to: Explain its context in the Bible? Discuss different interpretations of the passage? Compare it to other stories or metaphors related to death and resurrection?