Definition: And they shall not lie with the mighty [that are] fallen of the uncircumcised, which are gone down to hell with their weapons of war: and they have laid their swords under their heads, but their iniquities shall be upon their bones, though [they were] the terror of the mighty in the land of the living.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 32:27. It's a pretty complex passage, so we’ll go through it step-by-step to make it easier to understand. Here’s what it essentially means: This verse describes a very serious and frightening situation involving powerful people – specifically, the leaders of Israel – who have fallen from grace and are now facing judgment. Let's unpack each part: “And they shall not lie with the mighty [that are] fallen of the uncircumcised…” This is the core of the verse. "Mighty" here refers to powerful, influential leaders – probably kings or rulers who were considered righteous. “The uncircumcised” means those who didn’t follow Jewish law (circumcision). This phrase emphasizes that these people are not considered holy or right before God. It highlights a significant shift in their status and behavior. "...which are gone down to hell with their weapons of war:" This is a strong image – they've fallen into a state of ruin, possibly through rebellion or wrongdoing. “Weapons of war” suggests a violent or aggressive way of living. “And they have laid their swords under their heads…” This is a very striking image. It’s not just that they're not using weapons; they’ve placed them on their heads – a symbolic representation of their defeat and despair. It conveys a sense of hopelessness and resignation. “but their iniquities shall be upon their bones…” This is the crucial part. “Iniquities” refers to wrongdoings, sins, or transgressions. The verse says that these iniquities – those harmful behaviors – will come after them. It’s not just a possibility; they’re destined to experience consequences. “…though [they were] the terror of the mighty in the land of the living.” This is the most dramatic part. "Terror of the mighty" means they are feared and respected – powerful people who command attention and influence. The verse says that these fallen leaders will be remembered as a significant threat to the world, even after death. They’ll be a source of fear and worry for everyone living. Putting it all together - A Summary: Ezekiel 32:27 is telling us about a group of powerful people who have fallen from grace. They are now facing judgment because they have engaged in harmful or rebellious behavior. They’ve symbolically placed their weapons (representing their actions) on their heads, and their wickedness – their sins – will ultimately be experienced by everyone living long after they're gone. It's a warning about the consequences of sin and the importance of repentance. Overall Meaning & Significance: This verse is often interpreted as a prophetic warning about the potential for even powerful individuals to fall into sin and face eternal consequence. It’s a call to vigilance and encourages people to strive for righteousness. It's also a reminder that judgment comes after death, regardless of how much we might think we’ve done wrong. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Provide examples of what "iniquities" might be? Discuss the context of this passage within the larger story of Ezekiel and the book of Revelation?