Definition: Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land unto the ninth hour.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Matthew 27:45 together. It’s a really important part of understanding what happened after Jesus Christ died on the cross. Here’s the simple explanation: Basically, it means there was darkness all over the land for six hours. Let’s unpack that a little bit: “Now”: This tells us we're talking about after Jesus’ death. “There was darkness”: This describes a very gloomy and unsettling scene. It wasn’t just a little cloudy day; it was a deep, pervasive darkness. “Over all the land”: This means the darkness covered every part of the region – from the farthest mountains to the deepest valleys. “Unto the ninth hour”: This is the key part! “The ninth hour” refers to the time just before sunset. It’s a specific and significant point in the Bible. What does this all mean? Historically, this verse is often interpreted as a sign that Jesus' death was not complete. It suggests that God was withdrawing His presence from the world, allowing evil and despair to take hold. The darkness symbolizes: Loss of Hope: People were losing faith and hope for the future. The Power of Evil: The darkness represents forces working against good. God's Judgment: It’s a reminder that God is in control and isn't willing to tolerate evil. It’s important to note: This is one interpretation, and it’s been debated for centuries. However, it’s a powerful image that speaks to the profound impact of Jesus' sacrifice on the world. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about the time this verse was written? Discuss the different interpretations of this passage?