Definition: And [as for] you, O my flock, thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I judge between cattle and cattle, between the rams and the he goats.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 34:17. It's a pretty poetic and symbolic passage about God’s judgment. Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is essentially saying that God is comparing people to animals – specifically, goats and rams – to show how they should behave. It’s a message of accountability and responsibility. Let's unpack it word by word: “Ezekiel 34:17” : This tells us who is saying this - Ezekiel, a prophet in the Old Testament who was called by God to speak about Israel. “And [as for] you, O my flock…” – This means “and to you, my people.” Ezekiel is speaking directly to the Israelites. “…thus saith the Lord GOD;” : This is God speaking. It’s a serious declaration. “Behold, I judge between cattle and cattle, between the rams and the goats.” – This is the core of the verse. It's comparing people to animals in a very specific way: Cattle: These represent those who are complacent, lazy, or don’t take their responsibilities seriously. They’re like sheep that aren’t looking after themselves. Rams: These represent those who are arrogant, boastful, and think they're better than everyone else. They’re like stubborn, unyielding goats. So, what does it mean ? God is saying: “Look at these animals – and you too – and see how you should act. You need to be responsible for your actions and treat others with respect.” It's a warning about pride and the importance of being accountable for your choices. It’s a Warning About Pride: The most important thing to understand is that this verse isn't about punishing people. It’s about holding them accountable . God is highlighting the dangers of arrogance and self-importance – which can lead to bad behavior and disrespect for others. In short, it's a call to humility and responsibility. It’s urging the Israelites to be mindful of their actions and treat each other with respect. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you a related story or example?