Definition: Speak unto the house of Israel, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will profane my sanctuary, the excellency of your strength, the desire of your eyes, and that which your soul pitieth; and your sons and your daughters whom ye have left shall fall by the sword.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly powerful verse from Ezekiel 24:21. It's a really dramatic and unsettling passage about God’s judgment. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core of the Verse: “Speak unto the house of Israel, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will profane my sanctuary, the excellency of your strength, the desire of your eyes, and that which your soul pitieth; and your sons and your daughters whom ye have left shall fall by the sword.” What’s Happening? This verse describes God's plan to punish Israel for their wickedness. It paints a vivid picture of a complete and devastating breakdown: “I will profane my sanctuary…” : The "sanctuary" is a place of holiness, worship, and connection with God. It’s where God dwells and where people offer sacrifices. “Profane” means to desecrate or defile it. “…the excellency of your strength…” : This refers to Israel's power, their ability to defend themselves, and their prosperity. It's the source of their might. “…the desire of your eyes…” : This represents their ambition, their focus on worldly things, and their lust for power. It’s what drives them to seek wealth and glory. “and that which your soul pitieth” : This is the most shocking part – God is acknowledging a deep feeling of sorrow or remorse within Israel. It's a recognition of the terrible consequences of their actions. What Does it Mean? This verse is essentially saying: “God is incredibly angry with Israel because they’ve been living in sin and wickedness.” He’s rejecting everything that makes them powerful, successful, and happy – all the things he values most. It suggests a complete rejection of their way of life and their potential for destruction. The Warning: The verse warns against complacency and encourages Israel to repent (turn back) from their sins before it's too late. It’s a call to repentance and a reminder that God holds them accountable for their choices. Important Note: This is a very symbolic passage, and the exact meaning has been debated by scholars over centuries. It’s often interpreted as a prophecy of Israel’s ultimate destruction, but it's also seen as a warning about the dangers of pride, idolatry, and moral failure. In short, this verse describes God's absolute rejection of Israel’s wickedness and intends to bring about their downfall through violence. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Discuss what the verse might symbolize in a broader context (like the history of Israel)? Provide some additional background on Ezekiel's writing?