Definition: Thus saith the Lord GOD; No stranger, uncircumcised in heart, nor uncircumcised in flesh, shall enter into my sanctuary, of any stranger that [is] among the children of Israel.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 44:9. It's a really important and significant passage about God’s relationship with His people. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: God is establishing a special place – the “Sanctuary” – for Israel, specifically the children of Israel (meaning all descendants of Abraham and Sarah). This sanctuary is only for those who are not Jewish – meaning they aren’t circumcised. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Thus saith the Lord GOD…” : This is God speaking directly to Ezekiel, as he’s sending him to deliver a message. “…No stranger, uncircumcised in heart, nor uncircumcised in flesh…” : This is the key part. "Stranger" means someone who isn't Jewish. “Uncircumcised in heart” means they don’t have the covenant mark (the symbol of God’s identification with Israel) on their hearts. And “uncircumcised in flesh” means they aren’t Jewish in their very being – they aren’t part of the Jewish lineage. “…shall enter into my sanctuary…” : The Sanctuary is a special, holy place that God has built for His people. It's a place where God will dwell with them and provide for them. “of any stranger that [is] among the children of Israel” : This means anyone who isn’t Jewish – anyone who isn't part of the Jewish community – is forbidden from entering this sanctuary. It specifically refers to the Israelites. What does this mean in practice? This verse is a powerful statement about God's holiness and his desire for a close relationship with His people. It highlights: God’s exclusivity: He doesn’t want to share His presence or His love with anyone who isn’t part of His family – the Jewish people. A sacred space: The Sanctuary symbolizes God’s home and center of worship, a place where he can be fully present with his people. In short, it's a clear and direct command from God to keep the Israelites separate and holy in His presence. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further? Connect it to a specific story or event in the Bible?