Definition: And at this house, [which] is high, every one that passeth by it shall be astonished, and shall hiss; and they shall say, Why hath the LORD done thus unto this land, and to this house?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Kings 9:8. It’s a really interesting and somewhat mysterious passage in the Bible. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a situation where God is intentionally setting something incredibly valuable – a large house – aside for a specific group of people, and it's causing widespread astonishment and anger among them. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And at this house…” : This refers to a specific location, likely a palace or a significant building. “[which] is high” : This emphasizes the importance of this place – it's elevated and impressive. It suggests something special and treasured. “Every one that passeth by it shall be astonished…” : This means everyone who sees or approaches the house will be surprised and bewildered. It’s a visual and emotional shock. “…and shall hiss…” : “Hiss” is a strong word – it suggests a sharp, angry sound of displeasure. It's not just a simple annoyance; it’s a feeling of deep disapproval or resentment. “And they shall say, Why hath the LORD done thus unto this land, and to this house?” : This is the crucial part. The people are questioning why God would do this. They're grasping at an explanation – it seems like a punishment, or perhaps a deliberate act of injustice. Possible Interpretations (This is where it gets interesting): There’s no single definitive interpretation, but here are some common ideas: Divine Justice: It could be interpreted as God punishing those who have been disrespectful to him or his people, especially those who have acted in ways that were seen as corrupting. Restoration of Order: It might represent a period of restoration and re-establishing something that was disrupted – perhaps a shift in power or a loss of favor. A Test of Faith: The verse could be a test for the people, demonstrating their loyalty and faithfulness to God. Overall Meaning: The verse paints a picture of a powerful and deliberate act of divine intervention. It's a moment of stark surprise and anger on the part of those who have been granted access to something truly significant. Important Note: Biblical language can be complex, so this is an interpretation based on common understandings of the text. Different theologians and scholars might offer slightly different perspectives. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of the verse in more detail? Explore other possible interpretations? Discuss the historical context surrounding this passage?