Definition: Damascus [was] thy merchant in the multitude of the wares of thy making, for the multitude of all riches; in the wine of Helbon, and white wool.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 27:18. It’s a really interesting and somewhat unsettling passage! Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a person named Damascus who was essentially a huge, powerful, and incredibly wealthy merchant. It paints a picture of someone who amassed immense wealth through various means – primarily through the trade of goods like wine and wool. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Ezekiel 27:18” : This refers to a specific person named Damascus in Ezekiel, a book of prophetic writings within the Bible. “was thy merchant” : This means Damascus was actively involved in trading and dealing with goods. He wasn't just passively observing; he was actively participating in a business. “in the multitude of the wares of thy making” : This is a crucial part. “Wares” refers to various products – like fabrics, spices, wood, etc. “The multitude” means he was involved in many different kinds of trade. He wasn't just one thing; he was dealing with a vast array of goods. “for the multitude of all riches” : This emphasizes how wealthy he became. He amassed a huge amount of wealth – "all riches" - through his business dealings. “in the wine of Helbon” : “Helbon” is a place in Ezekiel, and the word “wine” refers to a type of wine made from grapes. It's a strange and somewhat unsettling detail! It suggests a very rich and possibly decadent lifestyle, perhaps involving something that was considered unclean or impure. “and white wool” : This adds more detail about his trade – he was dealing with high-quality wool, which is prized for its color and texture. The Overall Meaning - A Bit Dark: The verse suggests a situation where someone could be incredibly wealthy and morally corrupted. It paints a picture of a person who has become focused on material gain to the point that they've lost their integrity or compassion. Important Note: This is a difficult and somewhat unsettling passage in the Bible. It raises questions about greed, vanity, and the potential for people to be consumed by wealth. It’s often interpreted as a warning against excessive materialism and a reminder of the importance of humility and righteousness. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Discuss the possible interpretations of this verse from different theological perspectives? Provide some context about Ezekiel or the times when this verse was written?