Definition: And the high places of Isaac shall be desolate, and the sanctuaries of Israel shall be laid waste; and I will rise against the house of Jeroboam with the sword.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly powerful passage from Amos 7:9. It’s a really dramatic statement about the future! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God is going to actively punish the people of Israel who are following the leaders Jeroboam and his family (the “house of Jeroboam”). He’s going to use a very strong military force against them. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Amos 7:9” : This refers to a prophet named Amos, who was speaking from a specific vantage point in Jerusalem. It’s a prophetic message – meaning it’s a word of God given to someone for a particular purpose. “And the high places of Isaac…” : “High places” means places that are important and elevated. "Isaac" refers to Abraham, who is a very significant figure in Jewish history. The “high places” here likely refer to places of worship – temples or sacred spaces. “…shall be desolate…” : This means the areas where these temples and religious practices are located will become ruined, empty, and lifeless. It’s going to be a place of destruction. “And the sanctuaries of Israel shall be laid waste…” : “Sanctuaries” are places dedicated to God – temples, shrines, or other sacred spaces. "Laid waste" means to be destroyed or broken. This implies that the people's faith and connection to God will be severely damaged. “…I will rise against the house of Jeroboam with the sword.” : This is the most shocking part! Jeroboam was a leader who established two altars – one for each of his sons, Benjamin and Solomon – which caused conflict. God is saying he will actively fight against those leaders, using military force, to punish them. He’s going to be directly intervening in their affairs. Overall Meaning & Tone: The verse paints a picture of serious judgment and divine wrath. It suggests a period of great hardship, rebellion, and perhaps even widespread conflict for Israel. It's a message of God’s power and his commitment to justice. Important Note: This is a very Old Testament passage – it’s often interpreted as a prophecy about the future destruction of Israel, but its meaning is also understood in a broader sense relating to God’s ongoing judgment on sin and rebellion. --- Would you like me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Discuss what this passage might mean in the context of the Old Testament story of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (the patriarchs)?