Definition: They have moved me to jealousy with [that which is] not God; they have provoked me to anger with their vanities: and I will move them to jealousy with [those which are] not a people; I will provoke them to anger with a foolish nation.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Deuteronomy 32:21. It's a really powerful and complex passage about God’s feelings toward humanity. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: God is feeling intensely frustrated and angry with people who are focused on things that aren’t truly holy or right, and who are acting in ways that are foolish and destructive. He sees them as provoking him to action – essentially, challenging his authority and disrupting the order he’s established. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “They have moved me to jealousy…” : This is a key phrase. "Moved to jealousy" means God feels deeply uncomfortable, even sad, about this behavior. He’s experiencing a kind of emotional pain because of their actions. “…with [that which is] not God” : This is important! God isn't just angry at them in general. It’s specifically because they are straying from what he values – his holiness, his justice, his truth. It’s like a sickness affecting something that’s supposed to be good and righteous. “…they have provoked me to anger…” : This is a strong statement of God's displeasure. He’s feeling intensely upset because their actions are causing him distress. “with their vanities” : “Vanities” refer to things that are shallow, frivolous, or worldly – things that aren’t important or meaningful in the eyes of God. It suggests a focus on pleasure, possessions, power, or self-importance rather than spiritual matters. “and I will move them to jealousy with [those which are] not a people” : This is where it gets really significant. God isn't just going to directly attack them. He’s going to trigger their jealousy by focusing on things that aren't truly sacred – things that aren't rooted in the goodness of humanity and the covenant relationship with God. It’s a strategic move, designed to shake them up and remind them of what they’ve lost. “I will provoke them to anger with a foolish nation” : This emphasizes the scale of the problem. “A foolish nation” suggests that these people are acting in a way that is illogical, misguided, and potentially dangerous – a nation that doesn't have a clear moral compass. Overall Meaning: Deuteronomy 32 is essentially a warning about the dangers of pride, vanity, and prioritizing worldly pursuits over spiritual values. God is emphasizing the importance of remaining true to his word, upholding his principles, and focusing on things that are truly holy and meaningful – all because he is good and just. Why is this important? This verse highlights the idea that God doesn't simply tolerate wrongdoing; he actively seeks to correct it and protect his people from falling into sin and idolatry. It’s a call to faithfulness and a reminder of what truly matters. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Give an example of how this verse applies to modern life?