Definition: With the hoofs of his horses shall he tread down all thy streets: he shall slay thy people by the sword, and thy strong garrisons shall go down to the ground.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Ezekiel 26:11. It's a really disturbing verse, and it’s important to understand its context within the larger story of the Old Testament. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: What it says: “With the hoofs of his horses shall he tread down all thy streets: he shall slay thy people by the sword, and thy strong garrisons shall go down to the ground.” Here's a breakdown of what each part means: “With the hoofs of his horses shall he tread down all thy streets…” : This is a very dramatic image. "Hoofs" refers to the hooves of horses – think of them as large, powerful feet. So, this verse describes God using his power and force in a way that’s overwhelming and destructive. He's going to "tread down" or “trample” everything – literally, everything on the streets. “…he shall slay thy people by the sword…” : This is the core of the warning. God intends to kill His people with a sword. It’s not about a single act of violence; it's a deliberate and systematic attack. “and thy strong garrisons shall go down to the ground.” : This suggests that the people are being weakened, perhaps through military conflict or oppression. "Garrisons" refer to soldiers and armies – they're being pushed into a vulnerable position. “Go down to the ground” means they’re destroyed, weakened, and likely lost. What it’s really about: This verse is part of a larger story that describes God’s judgment on Israel in the days leading up to the fall of Babylon. It's a warning about: God’s Sovereignty: He’s showing Himself as powerful and willing to use force to bring about His will. Divine Justice: His justice is being served, even though it seems harsh. The Threat of Rebellion: It's a message of potential rebellion against God, implying that the people might choose to defy Him. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a prophecy of the destruction of Israel by a mighty army. However, the exact meaning and interpretation of this passage have been debated throughout history. It’s a complex and challenging passage that speaks to the deep anxieties of the time. --- Disclaimer: I want to reiterate that this explanation is intended to help you understand the text. It's important to remember that these are theological concepts, and different interpretations exist. Do you have any specific questions about this verse that you’d like me to answer? For example, would you like to know: More about the historical context of Ezekiel 26:11? How this verse relates to other biblical stories?