Definition: And they were scattered, because [there is] no shepherd: and they became meat to all the beasts of the field, when they were scattered.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 34:5. It’s a pretty dramatic and unsettling passage about a turning point in history. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a situation where people were lost and become something else – essentially, they're transformed into prey. It’s a warning about the dangers of pride and neglecting God's guidance. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And they were scattered…” : This suggests a loss of order and direction. People weren’t following a clear path or purpose. “…because [there] is no shepherd:…” : A shepherd is like a leader who guides and protects his flock – in this case, the people. Without a shepherd, there's no one to protect them from harm. “and they became meat to all the beasts of the field…” : This is the really shocking part. “Meat” means food. The people were being treated like livestock – taken and used as resources. The "beasts of the field" are wild animals, suggesting a brutal and uncontrolled situation. It’s a metaphor for exploitation and disregard for human life. What it's saying is: Ezekiel was warning about a time when people became so focused on themselves and their own desires that they lost sight of God’s plan and purpose. They prioritized their own interests over the well-being of others – and in this case, the well-being of humanity itself. It's a cautionary tale about pride and the importance of following God’s lead. In short, it’s a warning against becoming self-centered and losing our way under the guidance of someone else. Does that make sense? Would you like me to: Explain another verse from Ezekiel 34? Discuss the historical context of this passage (how it relates to Israel's history)?