Definition: And they shall make a spoil of thy riches, and make a prey of thy merchandise: and they shall break down thy walls, and destroy thy pleasant houses: and they shall lay thy stones and thy timber and thy dust in the midst of the water.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 26:12. It’s a pretty dramatic statement about God’s judgment on Israel, and it’s often misinterpreted. Here's a simple explanation: The Core Idea: God is saying that Israel will be severely punished for their disobedience and selfishness. The verse describes a complete destruction of their resources – their wealth, their possessions, their homes, and even their very foundations. Let’s unpack it word by word: “Ezekiel 26:12” : This is the specific passage we're looking at. “And they shall make a spoil of thy riches…” : This means that God intends to take everything from Israel – their wealth, their treasures, everything they have accumulated. It’s not just about money; it’s about all their possessions. “…and make a prey of thy merchandise…” : This is similar to the previous point - God intends to destroy their goods and products. Think of it as taking away what they produce. “And they shall break down thy walls…” : This refers to Israel’s fortifications, their defensive structures – everything they built to protect themselves. “…and destroy thy pleasant houses…” : This is a particularly harsh part – it means destroying the homes and dwellings of the Israelites, implying a loss of comfort and security. “And they shall lay thy stones and thy timber and thy dust in the midst of the water.” : This is where it gets really intense. It's not just about destruction; it's about everything being washed away – their stones, timber, and even their very bodies dissolving into the water. What’s the bigger picture? Historically, this verse is often interpreted as a prophecy of Israel’s eventual downfall. The phrase "spoils" and “prey” are often linked to the idea that God will punish them with destruction and ruin. However, it's important to note that it doesn't necessarily mean complete annihilation. It speaks more about a period of intense suffering and loss than a final, definitive end. Important Note: The context of this verse is complex and has been debated throughout history. It’s often viewed as a warning against idolatry and rebellion against God. --- Do you want to delve deeper into any aspect of this verse? For example, would you like me to: Explain its historical significance? Discuss the different interpretations of the text? Compare it to other biblical passages about judgment?