Definition: For I will send into her pestilence, and blood into her streets; and the wounded shall be judged in the midst of her by the sword upon her on every side; and they shall know that I [am] the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 28:23. It’s a pretty serious and dramatic statement about God’s judgment. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a devastating punishment for a city – Jerusalem – that has been plagued by sin and wickedness. God is going to actively punish it with sickness, death, and bloodshed. It's a very forceful warning. Let’s unpack each part: “For I will send into her pestilence, and blood into her streets…” - This refers to a widespread epidemic or plague. “Her” is a metaphorical way of saying "Jerusalem." God intends to use sickness and death to cleanse the city of its corruption. “…and the wounded shall be judged in the midst of her by the sword upon her on every side…” – This is where it gets intense. It means that the people within Jerusalem will be killed or die, and they’ll be punished directly by God's force. "On every side" emphasizes this widespread devastation. “And they shall know that I [am] the LORD.” - This is a crucial part. It’s a declaration of God’s authority and power. It means that God is actively involved in this punishment, and he is the one who is ultimately in control. What's it saying? The verse speaks to a time when Jerusalem was deeply corrupt and sinful. God is using a combination of sickness and violence to bring about a reckoning – a cleansing and judgment of the city. It’s not just about punishment; it’s about God’s active intervention in bringing about a righteous outcome. Important Note: This verse often gets misinterpreted, so it's important to remember that it’s a warning and a judgment . It isn’t about simply punishing people for their actions; it’s about God’s ultimate authority and his plan to purify the city through suffering. --- To help me explain this verse in more detail or answer any specific questions you might have, let me know: What specifically are you curious about? (e.g., its historical context, its symbolism, its meaning for today?)