Definition: But thou, O son of man, behold, they shall put bands upon thee, and shall bind thee with them, and thou shalt not go out among them:

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Ezekiel 3:25. It’s a really powerful and important message about protection and being set free. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is telling someone that they are being deliberately held captive or restricted – essentially, they're being put under a yoke or restriction. It’s not just any restriction; it’s a targeted and intentional holding back. Let's unpack it word-by-word: “But thou, O son of man…” - This is a very formal way of addressing someone – it’s like saying “You, as I am.” It emphasizes that this isn’t just a casual observation; it's a significant message. “… behold…” - This means "look at me." It draws the reader's attention to this specific situation. “…they shall put bands upon thee…” – “Bands” here refers to chains or restraints. They’re actively restricting someone physically. “…and shall bind thee with them…” - This emphasizes that these restraints are being applied specifically to the person. “And thou shalt not go out among them:” – This is the crucial part. It means that the person is forbidden from returning to, or interacting with, those who are restricting them. It’s a clear and absolute prohibition. What does it mean in bigger picture? This verse is often interpreted as a metaphor for: Political Oppression: Historically, this imagery has been linked to oppressive rulers and governments that limit freedom and autonomy. Spiritual Restriction: It can also represent being held back spiritually – perhaps by fear, doubt, or limiting beliefs. Being Controlled: It speaks to the idea of someone being manipulated or controlled in a way that prevents them from pursuing their true calling or living authentically. In essence, Ezekiel 3:25 is a warning about being treated unfairly and deliberately restricted – a situation where someone’s freedom and agency are being taken away. Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you examples of how it might apply to different situations (beyond just political oppression)?