Definition: Then I came to them of the captivity at Telabib, that dwelt by the river of Chebar, and I sat where they sat, and remained there astonished among them seven days.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 3:15. It's a really interesting and somewhat mysterious passage! Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: God is looking back at a group of people who were in a difficult situation – they were being treated unfairly and held captive. He’s observing them from a distance, feeling surprised and troubled by their behavior. Let's unpack it word-by-word: “Ezekiel 3:15 Then I came to them of the captivity at Telabib…” – This tells us who Ezekiel is referring to. "Telabib" was a city in Israel, and "captivity" means they were being held captive by someone else – likely Pharaoh’s officials. “…that dwelt by the river of Chebar…” - This gives us a location: They were located along the River Chebar, which is near Jerusalem. “and I sat where they sat…” - This is key! Ezekiel is saying he was observing them – watching them. He wasn’t participating in their life or doing anything. “…and remained there astonished among them seven days.” - This is the really important part. God is feeling a sense of surprise and being overwhelmed by what they were doing. He felt like he was witnessing something unusual and perhaps even unsettling. “Astonished” means surprised and amazed. "Seven days" adds to the feeling that it’s a long observation period. So, putting it all together: Ezekiel is describing God watching a group of people who were being held captive by another group. He's observing them from a distance, and he's feeling a sense of surprise and being troubled by their behavior. It suggests there might be something significant or perhaps even troubling happening within that group. What does it mean practically? This verse is often interpreted as a warning to the Israelites – to be careful what they do, because they are under a difficult situation. It’s a reminder that God is watching over them and that there could be consequences for their actions. Important Note: The exact meaning of this passage has been debated by scholars for centuries. It's a complex verse with layers of symbolism! --- Do you want me to: Explain the context of this verse in more detail? Discuss what it might symbolize? Compare it to another Bible story?