Definition: Thy rowers have brought thee into great waters: the east wind hath broken thee in the midst of the seas.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Ezekiel 27:26. It’s a really powerful and somewhat unsettling passage about a man who was once a prominent ruler, but is now facing ruin. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Ezekiel was a king: This describes the person being referred to – a ruler named Ezekiel. He was overwhelmed by a terrible storm: The verse says "thy rowers have brought thee into great waters." This is a metaphor for a massive, devastating flood or crisis. The East Wind caused the damage: “The east wind hath broken thee in the midst of the seas” – this is the key part. It means a strong, cold wind from the east (often associated with the sky) blew into the area and damaged Ezekiel’s ship or vessel. What it's saying – A Message of Loss & Shame: This verse speaks about a man who was once powerful and respected, but is now utterly destroyed by misfortune. It highlights several things: Loss of Status & Honor: The "rowers" represent people who were loyal to him, and their actions caused this devastation. It suggests he lost his power, prestige, and standing in the eyes of everyone. Humiliation & Shame: The “breaking in the midst of the seas” is a really striking image. It’s like being swallowed by a vast, turbulent ocean – it symbolizes a complete and utter loss of control and dignity. It's a picture of shame and humiliation. Divine Punishment (Maybe): The verse can be interpreted as a consequence of his actions or perhaps a punishment from God for his wickedness or corruption. It’s not necessarily about him being evil, but rather about the consequences of his choices. Important Note: The context of this verse is important. Ezekiel was a prophet who was exiled and facing judgment. This passage isn't meant to be a cheerful description of a joyful event – it's a stark warning about the dangers of pride, ambition, and failing to obey God's will. In short, it’s a story of a powerful man losing everything because of a terrible storm and his own failings. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Discuss the symbolism behind the imagery (like the east wind)? Explore its potential meaning in a broader theological context?