Definition: And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from Ezekiel 38:1: “And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying…” Basically, it's a very early and significant moment in God’s communication with Moses. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: God is speaking to Moses – one of his chosen messengers – and telling him something important. It’s like when you hear your parents or a teacher speak, you’re listening to their message! What’s Being Said? The verse essentially says that God revealed a message to Moses. “Coming unto me” means that the message was delivered to him. Why is this important? This is often seen as the very beginning of God's plan to communicate with humanity. It marks a turning point in how we understand the relationship between God and people. Context - A Little Background (Important!) It’s crucial to remember that Ezekiel 38 was a vision – a dramatic, symbolic experience. Ezekiel was seeing a huge fiery cloud over Egypt. This was a warning from God about the dangers of Egypt's Pharaoh ignoring his laws and disobeying God’s commands. The verse is essentially God saying “I am coming to warn you.” In short: It's the beginning of God revealing himself and telling us something important, often as a message of warning or instruction. --- Do you want me to explain another Bible verse? Perhaps one that’s a little more complex? Or would you like me to focus on a specific theme (like forgiveness, love, or obedience)? Just let me know!

Definition: Thus saith the Lord GOD; It shall also come to pass, [that] at the same time shall things come into thy mind, and thou shalt think an evil thought:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 38:10. It’s a pretty powerful and slightly unsettling passage about temptation and our thoughts. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: God is telling someone that at the same time as they think a bad, evil thought, something bad will happen. It’s not just a random coincidence; there’s a direct connection between their thinking and an outcome. Let's unpack it piece by piece: "Thus saith the Lord GOD..." : This is God speaking directly to someone. "...It shall also come to pass..." : This part emphasizes that something will happen. It’s a prediction or a statement of what is going to be . "[That] at the same time shall things come into thy mind..." : This is the key. "Things come into your mind" means thoughts, ideas, worries, desires... anything that pops into your head. "...and thou shalt think an evil thought:" : This is the core of the verse. God is saying that when you start thinking a bad or harmful thought , it will have consequences. What does this mean practically? This isn’t about someone consciously wanting to be evil. It's more about the potential for our thoughts to lead to negative outcomes. It suggests: Our Thoughts Shape Reality: Our thoughts and feelings are powerful forces that can influence what happens in our lives. We Are Responsible for Our Thoughts: God is saying we have a responsibility to choose our thoughts carefully, as they determine the path of events. The Temptation is Real: The verse highlights the reality of temptation – it’s not just about willpower; our minds can be easily swayed. Important Note: This isn't necessarily a warning against thinking negatively. It's more about recognizing that negative thoughts can have consequences, and being mindful of them. In short, this verse is a reminder to be aware of what you’re thinking and how those thoughts might impact your life. --- Do you want me to: Explain the context of Ezekiel 38? Discuss possible interpretations of this verse in different ways?

Definition: And thou shalt say, I will go up to the land of unwalled villages; I will go to them that are at rest, that dwell safely, all of them dwelling without walls, and having neither bars nor gates,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 38:11. It's a pretty powerful and symbolic statement about God’s intention. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Essentially, God is saying: “I want to go into places where people are completely safe and unprotected . I don’t need walls or barriers – just peaceful, settled communities.” Let's unpack that a little further: “I will go up to the land of unwalled villages…” This means God is going to be in areas where there are no houses, towns, or settlements. It’s about being completely isolated . “…that are at rest, that dwell safely…” This speaks to a state of peace and tranquility. People are simply living their lives without the worry of danger or conflict. “all of them dwelling without walls, having neither bars nor gates” This is the key part! God wants to completely eliminate any potential for harm or trouble. He envisions a place where people aren’t vulnerable to attack or being trapped. It's like a sanctuary – a haven free from risk. What does this verse teach us? It speaks to God’s desire to protect His people and to create a world where they can live without fear. It suggests: God’s Sovereignty: He is in control of the situation and choosing to act in a way that protects His people. Peace and Security: It hints at a future filled with peace, safety, and tranquility for those who are under God's care. In short, it's a vision of a world where God’s presence is entirely secure and protected. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage in the Bible?

Definition: To take a spoil, and to take a prey; to turn thine hand upon the desolate places [that are now] inhabited, and upon the people [that are] gathered out of the nations, which have gotten cattle and goods, that dwell in the midst of the land.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 38:12. It’s a pretty dramatic and somewhat ominous passage about God’s judgment. Here's a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: God is going to punish people who are moving too far away from the land He has established. Let’s unpack it word by word: “Ezekiel 38:12” : This refers to a specific prophecy written in Ezekiel's book – a vision of God sending a large storm over Egypt and surrounding lands. “To take a spoil, and to take a prey…” : This means God is going to attack and destroy things that are abundant or valuable. Think of it like taking a big meal – he’s going to take something good away from people. “…and to turn thine hand upon the desolate places [that are] inhabited…” : This is the most important part. “Desolate places” refers to areas that have been abandoned, deserted, or are in a state of ruin. "Turn thine hand upon" means to attack or punish. “…and upon the people [that are] gathered out of the nations, which have gotten cattle and goods…” : This describes the people – individuals and communities – who have left their homes and are now scattered throughout the land. "Gathered out of the nations" means they've moved far away and are no longer part of the established area. “Cattle and goods” refers to possessions – money, property, food, etc. Putting it all together: God is saying that he’s going to attack and destroy anything that has moved too far from his land, and anyone who has left their homes. It's a warning about potential conflict and the consequences of leaving things unattended. Important Note: This verse isn’t about physical destruction. It's a symbolic message about the dangers of wandering away from God's plan and neglecting His protection. --- Do you want me to: Explain it in more detail? Connect it to a specific biblical story or theme? Give you some possible interpretations of its meaning?

Definition: Sheba, and Dedan, and the merchants of Tarshish, with all the young lions thereof, shall say unto thee, Art thou come to take a spoil? hast thou gathered thy company to take a prey? to carry away silver and gold, to take away cattle and goods, to take a great spoil?

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Ezekiel 38:13. It’s a really interesting and somewhat dramatic passage about a future battle! Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: Basically, it’s describing a massive military conflict that’s going to happen in the future. Here’s a breakdown of what each part means: “Ezekiel 38:13” : This is the verse itself. It's from a prophecy written by Ezekiel, a prophet in ancient Israel. “Sheba, and Dedan, and the merchants of Tarshish…” : These are names of people who are traveling to the area near modern-day Lebanon (Tarshish). They’re likely traders or travelers. “…with all the young lions thereof…” : This is a really important part. "Young lions" refers to fierce, powerful creatures – perhaps lions – that are being sent to attack. It suggests a massive and dangerous military force. “…shall say unto thee, Art thou come to take a spoil?”… : This is the core of the verse. The travelers are asking Ezekiel a direct question: “Are you coming to take a spoil?” They’re implying they've been sent with a powerful army to conquer and plunder. “Hast thou gathered thy company to take a prey? hast thou gathered your people to take a…” : They want to know if the travelers are preparing for a large-scale raid, including taking supplies like silver and gold, as well as livestock and goods. What’s the Big Idea? This verse is part of a prophecy about God's judgment on Israel (and possibly other nations) in the future. It speaks of a great conflict that will be waged against them. The travelers are essentially warning Ezekiel – and perhaps hinting at a coming apocalypse – that these travelers are preparing for war, intending to attack and take something valuable. Context is Key: It’s important to remember this verse comes from a time of intense political tension in ancient Israel. The Israelites were facing threats from neighboring nations, so this prophecy was likely viewed as a warning about potential disaster. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss the meaning and significance of this prophecy within biblical history? Provide a little background on Ezekiel and his prophecies?

Definition: Therefore, son of man, prophesy and say unto Gog, Thus saith the Lord GOD; In that day when my people of Israel dwelleth safely, shalt thou not know [it]?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 38:14. It's a really interesting and somewhat mysterious passage with layers of meaning. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is essentially saying, “God is preparing for something significant.” It’s about a future event where God intends to protect His people – specifically, the Israelites – from a great threat. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Ezekiel 38:14” : This tells us who is speaking – Ezekiel, a prophet in Ezekiel’s time. He's giving a prophecy (a prediction) to God. “Therefore, son of man, prophesy and say unto Gog…” - This is the core of the verse. “Son of man” refers to Jesus Christ. Ezekiel is speaking as Jesus. He’s telling Jesus to speak out loud and declare something important. “Thus saith the Lord GOD; In that day when my people of Israel dwelleth safely, shalt thou not know [it]?” - This is the big part. “My people of Israel” refers back to the Israelites who God had promised to protect. The phrase "dwelleth safely" means they are living in peace and security. The key instruction is: “Thou shalt not know it.” What does that mean ? This is where it gets a bit more symbolic and open to interpretation. Here's what scholars think it suggests: God’s Plan for Israel: Ezekiel is telling Jesus to announce a significant future event – an event that will protect the Israelites from a powerful enemy. The Enemy is Coming: The verse implies that an enemy is about to attack or threaten Israel. It's not just any enemy, but one with serious consequences. A Time of Safety: “When my people of Israel dwelleth safely” suggests a time when they are shielded from harm and can live in peace. The Secret Threat: The most important part – the verb "know it" – is that God wants to keep this secret for a specific purpose. It's not meant to be revealed immediately. It’s a hidden plan, a veiled threat. Possible Interpretations (it’s debated!): Military Conflict: Some believe this verse refers to a future battle or war between God and his enemies. A Period of Divine Protection: It could also signify a time when God will actively intervene to protect His people from adversity. A Test of Faith: It’s sometimes interpreted as a test for the Israelites, urging them to remain faithful to God even in the face of hardship. In short, this verse is a dramatic declaration that God intends to safeguard his people, and it's leaving open the possibility of a significant future event that will protect Israel. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of the verse in more detail? Discuss different interpretations of the verse? Provide a little historical context for Ezekiel’s time?

Definition: And thou shalt come from thy place out of the north parts, thou, and many people with thee, all of them riding upon horses, a great company, and a mighty army:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 38:15. It’s a really significant and dramatic statement about God’s plan for the future! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God is saying: “You are coming to us, and you will be with us, in great numbers.” Let’s unpack that a little further: “And thou shalt come from thy place out of the north parts…” : This refers to a specific group of people – likely the Israelites – who were living in a particular area. “Place” here means their homeland or origin. “…you, and many people with thee…” : This is about a huge gathering! It’s not just a small group; it's a massive army, ready to go. “All of them riding upon horses, a great company, and a mighty army:” This paints a picture of overwhelming power and might. "Riding upon horses" suggests a large procession or advance. “A great company” emphasizes the sheer number of people involved. "Mighty army" reinforces that it’s not just a small force, but something incredibly powerful. What does this mean in terms of God's plan? Historically, this verse is often interpreted as a sign that God is about to deliver Israel from its oppressors (like the Babylonians). It suggests a large, decisive military action by God to punish those who have wronged him and his people. Important Note: It’s crucial to remember this passage was written long ago, in a time of great upheaval for the Israelites. The context is vital to understanding its meaning. --- Do you want me to: Explain why this verse might be significant historically? Discuss different interpretations of this verse? Give you some additional context about Ezekiel 38?

Definition: And thou shalt come up against my people of Israel, as a cloud to cover the land; it shall be in the latter days, and I will bring thee against my land, that the heathen may know me, when I shall be sanctified in thee, O Gog, before their eyes.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly powerful verse from Ezekiel 38:16. It's a really significant and dramatic statement about God’s plan for the future. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: God is telling someone – and we interpret it as him – that He will actively confront Israel, the people of Judah (which was then part of Israel), with a powerful presence. This isn't just a friendly visit; it’s a deliberate challenge to show His power and holiness. He anticipates that this confrontation will be a time of significant change and revelation for God's people. Let’s unpack the parts: “And thou shalt come up against my people of Israel…” : This is a strong command. It means God intends to actively intervene . He's not just sending a message; he wants to actively fight against them. Think of it like a massive, determined army coming to attack. “…as a cloud to cover the land…” : This is a metaphor. A cloud represents something that obscures or hides something else. In this case, the cloud signifies God's presence and protection over Israel. It’s a way of saying He’s going to shield them from harm. “It shall be in the latter days, and I will bring thee against my land…” : This is where it gets really significant. "The latter days" refers to a time of great upheaval and change – perhaps a period of war or major crisis. God intends to bring Him into conflict with Israel. “…that the heathen may know me, when I shall be sanctified in thee, O Gog…” : This is the crucial part. “The heathen” refers to those outside of Israel. “Sanctified” means made holy or purified – like being cleansed and ready for God’s purpose. “In thee” (to you, specifically) means that God intends to reveal His power and holiness specifically to Israel. "O Gog" is a nickname for the person who was speaking this prophecy – it’s a way of emphasizing his role as the threat. He's anticipating that God will purify and sanctify him (or, in a broader sense, Israel) so He can show His power. Overall Meaning & Significance: This verse is a declaration of God's plan for ultimate victory. It’s about a final showdown between God and his people. It suggests that God is moving towards a time where His holiness will be evident and powerfully demonstrated, ultimately leading to Israel’s restoration and the establishment of His kingdom. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a warning. It's not just about a physical battle; it’s about a spiritual one – a test of faith and devotion. It speaks to a time when God will show His power in a profound way, and that power might be seen through the people of Israel. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss its historical context (e.g., what was happening in ancient Judah)? Explore different interpretations of this verse?

Definition: Thus saith the Lord GOD; [Art] thou he of whom I have spoken in old time by my servants the prophets of Israel, which prophesied in those days [many] years that I would bring thee against them?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 38:17. It's a really important and somewhat dramatic passage about God’s plan for a future conflict. Here’s what it means, explained in simple terms: The Basic Idea: God is saying to someone (we can assume it’s a prophet named Ezekiel) that he was prophesied about long ago – thousands of years before! He said, “I told you I would bring you against them.” Let's unpack the parts: “Thus saith the Lord GOD” : This is just a formal way for God to introduce himself. It’s like saying "This is what God says..." “[Art] thou he of whom I have spoken in old time by my servants the prophets of Israel?” : This is the key part. The prophet is asking if this person – this individual – was the very person he prophesied about. He's saying, “Are you the one I told you would be against those people?” “by my servants the prophets of Israel” : This tells us that the prophecy wasn’t just a random thought; it came from someone who had been called upon by God to speak this message. The prophets were God's messengers, and they were entrusted with delivering His word. “which prophesied in those days [many] years” : This emphasizes how long ago the prophecy was made – thousands of years! It shows that it’s a significant and old prediction. “that I would bring thee against them?” : This is the core of the message. God is saying, “I told you I would confront those people.” So, what does this mean in a nutshell? It means that God had a plan to punish or challenge those who were resisting His will, and He specifically called out this person – this prophet – as the one who would be involved. It’s a warning of impending conflict. Why is it important? This verse is often interpreted as a foreshadowing of a major battle or war between God and his people (representing those who oppose him). It's a reminder that God is actively working to bring about His purpose, even when it seems difficult. --- Do you want me to: Explain the context of this verse in more detail? Discuss what the prophecy might have meant for the people at the time? Compare it to another Bible passage about conflict or judgment?

Definition: And it shall come to pass at the same time when Gog shall come against the land of Israel, saith the Lord GOD, [that] my fury shall come up in my face.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 38:18. It's a pretty dramatic and intense statement about God’s reaction to something happening in the future. Here’s what it means, explained simply: What’s Happening? The verse says that when Gog (a giant, rebellious figure) attacks Israel, God will unleash His anger and fury on him. Let's unpack the words: “Ezekiel 38:18” : This is a passage from a prophetic book in the Bible. Prophecy is about looking into the future. “And it shall come to pass…” : This phrase means something will happen . It’s not just a prediction, but a declaration of what will occur. “At the same time when Gog shall come against the land of Israel” : This is key! Ezekiel 38 describes Gog as a huge, powerful enemy attacking Israel. The verse says this event will happen at the exact same moment that Gog begins his attack. It’s a very specific timing. “Saith the Lord GOD…” : This means God is speaking and declaring this truth. It's a statement from God himself. What does it mean in simpler terms? God is saying: “If Gog attacks Israel, I will be very angry with him.” It’s a warning – he’s anticipating a terrible event and preparing for it. Important Context - Why is this a big deal? This verse isn't just about a giant enemy. It speaks to a broader idea: God's judgment and His willingness to punish those who defy him. Historically, this has been interpreted as a foreshadowing of the destruction of Israel in the Book of Judges. In essence, it’s a declaration of God’s power and his commitment to justice. It suggests that God is very serious about protecting His people and will not tolerate defiance or rebellion. --- Disclaimer: I am an AI assistant and this explanation is based on commonly accepted interpretations of the Bible. Religious texts are complex, and there can be different perspectives. Do you have any specific questions about this verse that I can answer for you? For example, would you like to know: What does it mean in relation to the Book of Judges? How does this verse relate to other biblical prophecies?