Definition: And they all wept sore, and fell on Paulâs neck, and kissed him,
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly powerful passage from Acts 20:37. It’s a really significant moment in the story of the early church. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Scene: Paul was speaking to the crowd and sharing his vision with them about the future. He was trying to inspire them with hope and encouragement. Suddenly, the entire congregation – including the women and even some of the onlookers – started crying uncontrollably. They were sobbing openly. Then, it gets really strange: As they wept, they all fell on Paul’s neck . This is a crucial detail. It wasn't just tears; it was a full-blown outpouring of grief and emotion. They were completely overwhelmed by the sadness and despair. And then, they kissed him: Finally, as the crying intensified, they began to kiss him. What’s the Significance? This is where it gets really deep and symbolic: Emotional Overflow: The weeping represents a massive outpouring of emotion – grief, sorrow, despair – directed at Paul. It wasn't just a single tear; it was an overwhelming wave of feeling. Connection to Christ: The fact that they wept while he was speaking about the future suggests a profound connection between them and Jesus. They were experiencing a shared experience of suffering and loss, directly related to his message. It’s like they were receiving a message of comfort and hope through his pain. Faith & Devotion: The act of kissing him speaks to their unwavering faith in God and in Paul's message. It shows that they were so deeply moved by what he was saying that they felt compelled to respond with grief and affection. Overall Meaning: This passage is a powerful expression of the deep emotional impact of Paul’s words on the people present. It highlights how their sorrow was intertwined with their faith, demonstrating the transformative power of his message. It's a testament to the intensity of their devotion and a moment where they felt truly connected to something larger than themselves. In short: The women wept so hard that they kissed Paul, showing their deep emotional connection to him and his message. Do you want me to explain any part of this in more detail, or perhaps explore its context a bit further?