Definition: Therefore rejoice, [ye] heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Revelation 12:12. It’s a pretty intense and dramatic passage about the coming of evil. Here's a simplified explanation: Overall Meaning: This verse is essentially saying that the devil (often interpreted as Satan) has arrived on Earth and is incredibly angry because he knows his time is limited. Let’s look at it word-by-word: “Therefore rejoice, heavens, and those who dwell in them.” – This is a command to the angels and all of God's creation to joyfully exist. It suggests a feeling of peace and happiness. “Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea!” – This is the core of the message. “Woe” means sorrow, distress, or misfortune. It’s saying that the devil's arrival will bring terrible suffering and hardship to everyone on Earth - from people and animals to plants and even the oceans! “for the devil is come down unto you…” – This is a strong statement of who the devil is. He’s descending or coming down to attack humanity. “…having great wrath…” – The devil’s anger is immense and powerful. It's not just annoyance; it’s a deep, burning rage. “because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.” – This is the most important part. The devil knows that his power will be limited. He understands that his influence and control over people and events won't last forever. In simpler terms, it’s saying: The devil is attacking humanity, and he knows this is going to end in a period of great trouble and suffering for everyone. What does it mean for us? It’s a warning about the ongoing battle between good and evil. It encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith and resist temptation by trusting God's plan. --- Important Note: Interpreting biblical passages like this can be complex, and there are many different viewpoints. This explanation offers a general understanding of the verse’s meaning within its context. Do you want me to go into more detail about any specific aspect of this passage? For example, we could discuss: The symbolism behind the “heavens” The concept of "short time" and its significance How this verse relates to other parts of the Bible