Definition: Then said I, O Lord GOD, cease, I beseech thee: by whom shall Jacob arise? for he [is] small.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Amos 7:5. It's a really powerful and somewhat unsettling passage about the future of Israel. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God is deeply worried about the future of the people of Israel. He’s expressing a sense of profound sadness and impending doom. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Then said I, O Lord GOD…” : This establishes the speaker – it’s Amos, a prophet who was very concerned with God’s will. He’s speaking directly to God. “…cease, I beseech thee: by whom shall Jacob arise?” : This is the core of the verse. "Jacob" is the name of a significant figure in Jewish history and tradition. He's being asked – who will rise? “Arise” means to become or come into existence. “…for he [is] small.” : This is the crucial part that’s unsettling. “Small” isn't just about physical size. It refers to a lack of power, influence, and significance . It suggests that Jacob is incredibly weak and insignificant in comparison to God. Putting it all together – what's the message? Amos is telling God that he sees a future where Israel will be utterly lost and insignificant. He’s expressing a deep sense of despair because he believes that this small, powerless figure (Jacob) will ultimately lead to destruction and failure for the entire nation. It suggests a significant period of darkness and hardship for Israel. Important Context: This verse is often interpreted as a prophecy of the rise of a powerful, tyrannical king who will eventually lead Israel into exile. It speaks to a time when God is deeply concerned about the potential for evil and rebellion within his people. In essence, this verse paints a picture of a future where a seemingly insignificant figure will be crucial in bringing about immense suffering and ultimately, destruction. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss a specific theme from these verses (like judgment, hope, or warning)?