Definition: And the man of God said, Where fell it? And he shewed him the place. And he cut down a stick, and cast [it] in thither; and the iron did swim.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Revelation 21:6 together. It’s a really striking image! Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes a scene of utter destruction and chaos after the Fall of Babylon – which is a key part of the biblical story about the end times. Let's unpack it: “And the man of God said, Where fell it?” This refers to God himself. He’s saying, “I’ve noticed something… I’m puzzled.” It suggests a divine investigation into a problem that has arisen. “And he shewed him the place.” The "place" is a specific location – a large, barren area. Think of it like a wasteland or an empty field. “And he cut down a stick, and cast [it] in thither; and the iron did swim." This is the most dramatic part. It describes a massive, colossal stick being thrown into this desolate place. "Cut down a stick..." - This signifies destruction and removal. "...in thither..." – “In that place” – This emphasizes the location of the devastation. “The iron did swim.” - This is the really strange part! Iron, traditionally associated with strength and stability, is described as "swimming." This implies it’s moving rapidly and uncontrollably in a way that's impossible for anything to do. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: The verse paints a picture of: A Massive Destruction: The “stick” represents something huge and destructive – possibly the remnants of empires or systems that have fallen. Chaos and Disorder: The "swimming iron" signifies a chaotic, uncontrolled movement, representing a period of intense turmoil and disorder after the fall of Babylon. Divine Judgment: It’s a symbolic representation of God's judgment on evil and wickedness, and the resulting aftermath of that judgment. Important Note: This is a complex verse, and it’s often interpreted in various ways. It's about a time of immense devastation and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts further? Connect this verse to other Bible stories or concepts?