Definition: Then Eliezer the son of Dodavah of Mareshah prophesied against Jehoshaphat, saying, Because thou hast joined thyself with Ahaziah, the LORD hath broken thy works. And the ships were broken, that they were not able to go to Tarshish.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 20:37 together. It's a pretty dramatic and unsettling passage about a conflict in ancient Judah. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Jehoshaphat was a powerful king: He ruled over Judah and Israel, and he was known for his piety and good leadership. Eliezer, a young man, predicted disaster: Eliezer prophesied that Jehoshaphat’s actions – perhaps involving a dangerous alliance or something that angered God – were causing problems. The ships were broken: This is the key part. Eliezer said that because Jehoshaphat had made a terrible choice, the ships he sent to Tarshish (a port city far away) were wrecked and unable to reach their destination. What it Means in Simple Terms: This verse describes a major crisis triggered by Jehoshaphat’s choices. It suggests that Jehoshaphat's actions – maybe involving a risky deal or a situation where he wasn't completely truthful – angered God. Because of this anger, God deliberately ruined the ships and prevented them from reaching their intended place. Symbolic Meaning (A bit deeper): Ahaziah: This refers to Ahaziah, the king who had been exiled by his own family in the past. It symbolizes a broken relationship with God or a situation where a king's actions lead to hardship for others. “Joined thyself with Ahaziah” : This is a powerful image – it suggests a deep and perhaps destructive alliance that angered God. Overall Significance: This verse highlights the idea that God’s judgment can come unexpectedly from those who are trying to be righteous. It's a warning against seeking power or alliances at any cost, as they could lead to disaster. It speaks to the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God’s will. Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Discuss its historical context? Explore its symbolic meaning in more detail?