Definition: Afterward he measured a thousand; [and it was] a river that I could not pass over: for the waters were risen, waters to swim in, a river that could not be passed over.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 47:5. It's a pretty amazing and symbolic description of God’s power and plan! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God is showing us how powerful he is and how he intends to bring about a great change. Here's a breakdown of the key parts: “Ezekiel 47:5 Afterward he measured a thousand…” – This tells us that God was looking at something incredibly large. He’s not just talking about a single thing; he’s setting up a benchmark, like a measurement stick. “[and it was] a river that I could not pass over:” - This is the crucial part! God is describing a river . Rivers are naturally flowing and have a defined path. But this river…it's too big for anything to go over it. It’s like a powerful force trying to push through something that’s simply too great. So, what does this mean? This verse is about God’s ability to control and shape things – especially water. It suggests: God's Sovereignty: He has the power to create and command things, even things that seem impossible. His Plan for Change: He intends to bring about a significant shift in the world. This isn’t just about rain or snow; it’s about a fundamental transformation. A Powerful Force: The description of the river "rising" and being “swimming in” implies that this change will be immense and unstoppable. It's not just a change, but a powerful one. It’s important to note: This is a metaphorical description. The "river" wasn’t literally a river – it was a symbol of God’s power and judgment. It represents the cleansing and renewal that will come after a period of trouble or darkness. --- Do you want me to explain any of these parts in more detail, perhaps relate them to a specific context (like a time period or story)? Or would you like me to give you some broader interpretations?