Definition: And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this important passage from the Bible. This verse is a really striking and dramatic description of Jesus’ crucifixion. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Jesus was arrested: In the days leading up to his death, Jesus was being held captive by Roman authorities. The Sixth Hour: “The sixth hour” refers to 6 PM – the time when the Romans were allowed to release him. It’s a specific time of day. Darkness Descends: Suddenly, completely dark clouds rolled in over the entire land (meaning all the countries and areas around Jerusalem). This wasn't just a little bit cloudy; it was a heavy, oppressive darkness. What It Means – A Symbolic Explanation: This isn’t about literal darkness. It’s a symbolic representation of something much bigger: The Removal of Hope: The darkness signifies the removal of hope and light from the world. It represents the despair and fear that had been gripping people during Jesus’ arrest. God’s Judgment: Many believe this dark night was God's judgment on humanity, revealing the injustice and wrongdoing of the world. It was a moment when God felt grieved by the suffering of his people. It's a Powerful Image: The verse is often interpreted as a sign that Jesus was about to be brutally killed. It’s a dramatic foreshadowing of the event itself. Important Note: This verse is a complex one, and it’s been debated for centuries. Different interpretations exist – some see it as a literal description of a dark sky, while others believe it's a symbolic representation of God’s wrath and judgment. --- Do you want me to explain any specific aspect of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Discuss the historical context of the time? Explain the different interpretations of this passage?