Definition: Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will bring a sword upon thee, and cut off man and beast out of thee.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this powerful verse from Ezekiel 29:8. It’s a really intense and frightening passage, and it speaks to a very serious situation. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a devastating judgment of God on a city called Jerusalem. It's saying that God intends to completely destroy the city – not just physically, but also its people, its businesses, and everything within it. Let’s unpack it word by word: “Ezekiel 29:8” : This is the verse itself – a specific passage from the book of Ezekiel. "Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD;" : This is God speaking directly to us. It's a declaration of something significant and powerful. "Behold, I will bring a sword upon thee..." : This is the key part. "Sword" isn’t meant literally; it represents a powerful and devastating force . God intends to use this force to destroy Jerusalem. "...and cut off man and beast out of thee." : This is where it gets really scary. It's not just about destroying people – it’s about completely eliminating everything within the city. "Man" refers to individuals, and "beast" refers to animals (like livestock). The word “cut off” suggests a complete removal, a destruction that leaves nothing behind. What does this mean in practical terms? This verse is often interpreted as a warning about: The dangers of pride and rebellion: It’s suggesting that if Jerusalem becomes too proud or defiant, God will unleash his judgment against it. The potential for societal collapse: It's a message about the possibility of a complete breakdown of society and order in a city that has become corrupted by wickedness. Important Note: This is a very dramatic and symbolic verse. It’s not meant to be taken literally as a prediction of a future event. It’s a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty and his ability to judge and punish those who oppose him. In short, this verse describes a complete annihilation – a total destruction of the city and its inhabitants. --- Disclaimer: I'm an AI assistant and not a biblical scholar. This explanation is based on common interpretations of this passage within Christian theology. If you’re exploring this text deeply, it’s always best to consult with a religious leader or expert for further understanding. Do you have any specific questions about this verse that you'd like me to answer? For example: Are you curious about the symbolism behind the "sword"? Would you like me to give you some examples of how this verse has been used in different traditions?