Definition: The merchandise of gold, and silver, and precious stones, and of pearls, and fine linen, and purple, and silk, and scarlet, and all thyine wood, and all manner vessels of ivory, and all manner vessels of most precious wood, and of brass, and iron, and marble,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Revelation 18:12. It's a really striking image, and it speaks to a big picture of the end times. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a completely ruined and devastated world – basically a total collapse of everything that’s valuable and beautiful. It’s like a giant “clean slate” where all that worldly wealth and splendor is gone. Let's look at the individual items: “Merchandise of gold, and silver, and precious stones…” : This means things made of gold, silver, jewels (like diamonds and rubies), and valuable gemstones. Think of really expensive jewelry – crowns, necklaces, etc. “…and of pearls, and fine linen, and purple, and silk, and scarlet…” : These are all incredibly luxurious and beautiful fabrics – think of the finest silks, vibrant purples, deep reds, and shimmering silvers. It’s a picture of opulent displays. “And all manner vessels of ivory, and all manner vessels of most precious wood, and of brass, and iron, and marble” : These are all things made of valuable materials – wood (like oak or mahogany), metal (brass and iron), and marble – that were used to create beautiful objects. What’s the meaning ? The verse describes a world where everything that's truly valuable – wealth, beauty, and luxury – has been completely destroyed. It suggests a time when things are so corrupted and broken that nothing is worth holding onto anymore. It points towards a future where there’s no more material possessions or displays of splendor. Why is this important? Revelation 18 often speaks about the final judgment and the destruction of sin and evil. It's a warning about the consequences of greed, wickedness, and earthly pursuits. In short, it’s a vivid picture of a world utterly consumed by ruin – a place where everything that has value is gone. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Connect it to other Bible stories or themes?