Definition: [As] I live, saith the Lord GOD, surely in the place [where] the king [dwelleth] that made him king, whose oath he despised, and whose covenant he brake, [even] with him in the midst of Babylon he shall die.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 17:16. It’s a really powerful and dramatic passage about a terrible betrayal. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Story: Ezekiel is speaking to a king: This verse comes from the prophet Ezekiel, who was in a very difficult situation – he was being punished by God for a serious transgression. The King Has Betrayed God: The king of Babylon (a powerful city-state) has betrayed God's trust and broken a covenant (an agreement made between God and the king). This is the core of the problem. The King Is Now Dead: God’s plan was for this king to be punished, but he chose to die in Babylon. Let’s unpack the key parts: “As” – A Declarative Statement: The word “as” starts the sentence, emphasizing that this is a declaration made by God. It's not just a feeling or thought; it's a statement of fact. "I live, saith the Lord GOD..." : This tells us we’re hearing a direct message from God. God is actively involved and speaking about what will happen. "...Surely in the place [where] the king dwelleth..." : This means God is stating that this specific location – Babylon – is the place where this king lives. It's a clear reference to the city. "...who made him king, whose oath he despised..." : This describes the king’s actions before the betrayal. He was allowed to rule by God, but he refused to honor God's promises and rules. "...and whose covenant he broke..." : A covenant is a sacred agreement between two people or groups. This means the king violated his obligations to God. It was a promise made between God and the king that he didn’t keep. "[Even] with him in the midst of Babylon he shall die." : This is the shocking part. God is saying that this king will die in Babylon . This isn't just any death; it's a death that’s directly connected to the king's betrayal and disrespect. Overall Meaning & Significance: This verse paints a picture of profound injustice and wrath from God. It highlights: God’s Justice: God is holding someone accountable for their actions. Divine Punishment: The verse suggests that punishment will come to those who betray God's trust. A Bitter End: The king’s death in Babylon signifies a very severe consequence. In short, this verse describes a terrible betrayal and the resulting consequences – a king’s demise brought about by his defiance of God. --- Do you want me to: Explain any particular part of this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific biblical story or theme (like repentance or judgment)?