Definition: And cinnamon, and odours, and ointments, and frankincense, and wine, and oil, and fine flour, and wheat, and beasts, and sheep, and horses, and chariots, and slaves, and souls of men.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Revelation 18:13. It’s a pretty vivid picture of what’s going to happen in the end times – when God is finally judging all of creation. Here's a simplified explanation: Essentially, it describes a scene of utter chaos and destruction, but also a cleansing and renewal. Let's unpack each element: “And cinnamon, and odours, and ointments, and frankincense, and wine, and oil…” : These are all things that smell good – spices, perfumes, and oils. Think of them as symbols of luxury, beauty, and celebration. They’re meant to create a pleasant atmosphere before the end. “…and fine flour, and wheat, and beasts, and sheep, and horses, and chariots…” : These are all things that represent physical creatures – livestock, animals, and even armies. They symbolize the people of the world. "...and slaves, and souls of men.” This is the really shocking part. It means that everything – all the people, animals, and even the very fabric of society – will be destroyed and utterly annihilated. It’s not just about physical destruction; it's about the complete annihilation of humanity and its systems. So, what does this mean? Revelation 18 describes a final judgment where God is purifying the world through fire and smoke. The "things" listed – spices, perfumes, animals, people, etc. – are all burned away in this judgment. It’s a complete annihilation of everything that was created by God. Important Note: This verse isn't about a literal burning down of cities. It's a symbolic representation of God’s ultimate justice and the final restoration of creation. In short, it's a dramatic vision of a complete and utter destruction of all things, followed by a new beginning. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss what this verse might symbolize in a broader context (like the end times)?