Definition: Ashkelon shall see [it], and fear; Gaza also [shall see it], and be very sorrowful, and Ekron; for her expectation shall be ashamed; and the king shall perish from Gaza, and Ashkelon shall not be inhabited.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible verse together. It's a really dramatic passage about future events and a lot of worry! Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse paints a picture of a terrible situation coming to Gaza and Ashkelon, and it warns that it will have devastating consequences for the kingdom (the king). Let's look at each part: “Zechariah 9:5” : This refers to a prophecy – a word or message written down in the Bible. It’s a specific prediction about what will happen. “Ashkelon shall see [it]” : This means Ashkelon (a city near Jerusalem) will be confronted with a significant revelation, likely something difficult or painful. The word "it" is somewhat mysterious and could mean many things – perhaps a truth that must be understood. “and fear” : This indicates that the people of Ashkelon will feel fear and anxiety because they are facing this revelation. “Gaza also [shall see it]” : This extends the warning to Gaza, a city in Israel. It’s experiencing similar feelings of fear and dread. “and be very sorrowful, and Ekron” : Ekron is a place in Israel (likely the area around Jerusalem). The verse describes Gazan people feeling immense sorrow and grief because they are witnessing this revelation. “for her expectation shall be ashamed” : This is the key part of the verse. It means that Gaza’s expectations – their hopes, plans, and desires – will be shattered and feel foolish or inadequate. “and the king shall perish from Gaza” : This is a serious consequence. The king of Gaza (the ruler of the kingdom) will lose everything - his power, his position, and possibly even his life. “and Ashkelon shall not be inhabited” : Finally, the verse warns that Ashkelon itself – the city – will become uninhabitable. It’s a symbolic ending to the devastation. Overall Meaning & Significance: This passage is part of a larger prophecy about God's judgment and the coming of evil. It suggests that there's a time when God will punish those who are proud, selfish, and obsessed with their own ambitions. The verse is essentially saying that Gaza’s focus on its own power and desires will lead to disaster – it will be filled with sorrow and loss. Important Note: The Bible uses symbolic language here. It's not always about literal events happening exactly as described. This verse is a warning about the dangers of pride, ambition, and the potential for a kingdom to fall into darkness. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part in more detail? Connect this verse to other Bible stories or themes? Discuss what this verse might symbolize (e.g., political unrest)?