Definition: And they shall make themselves utterly bald for thee, and gird them with sackcloth, and they shall weep for thee with bitterness of heart [and] bitter wailing.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 27:31. It's a really powerful and disturbing image, and it speaks to a deep sense of shame and despair. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a horrific scene where people are being forced to become completely bald and covered in sacks – essentially, they’re being treated like garbage. It's meant to convey the immense pain and humiliation experienced by a person who has been utterly humiliated and despised. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And they shall make themselves utterly bald…” - This is the core of the image. It’s not just a little bit bald; it’s completely bald. Think of it as being stripped bare of all hair, skin, and any semblance of dignity. It symbolizes complete shame and exposure. “…for thee…” - This is crucial. The person receiving this treatment is being treated for someone else – specifically, for the suffering of God. It’s a direct consequence of a great wrong done. “And gird them with sackcloth…” - This emphasizes the severity of the situation. Sackcloth is a rough, absorbent cloth used to cover things, signifying a covering of shame and misery. It's like being wrapped in a heavy shroud. “…and they shall weep for thee with bitterness of heart [and] bitter wailing.” – This is where it gets really unsettling. The verse says they will weep – cry out in grief and pain. But the weeping isn't just sadness; it’s a deep, agonizing bitterness – a sour, painful feeling of resentment and hatred. It suggests a profound sense of injustice and being utterly despised. What’s the Significance? This verse is often interpreted as a symbolic representation of: Religious Oppression: It speaks to the power of religious judgment and the suffering caused by persecution and societal scorn. Social Injustice: It highlights how individuals can be treated harshly and with contempt simply for their identity or status, even if they are not inherently evil. The Pain of Being Denied Respect: It’s a stark image of being stripped of dignity and valued, leaving you feeling utterly worthless. Important Note: It's a very disturbing passage, and it’s important to approach it with sensitivity. The context within the larger biblical narrative is key to understanding its meaning. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further? Discuss the historical or cultural context of this passage? Compare it to other stories in the Bible that deal with shame or humiliation?