Definition: And that whosoever would not come within three days, according to the counsel of the princes and the elders, all his substance should be forfeited, and himself separated from the congregation of those that had been carried away.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezra 10:8. It’s a pretty serious statement about repentance and separation. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is telling us that if someone doesn’t repent – truly change their heart and turn away from sin – they risk losing everything they have. It’s a warning about the consequences of not seeking God’s forgiveness. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Ezra 10:8” : This refers to a specific event in ancient Jewish history. It describes a situation where there was a massive outbreak of plague and death in Jerusalem, and the people were deeply broken and lost faith. “And that whosoever would not come within three days…” – This is a direct command. It’s saying, “This is a requirement.” "...according to the counsel of the princes and the elders..." - The leaders (princes and elders) were involved in making this decision. They were responsible for guiding people toward repentance. "all his substance should be forfeited…" – This means everything that makes someone a part of God’s plan – their soul, their life, their identity – is at risk. It's like losing your entire being to sin. "...and himself separated from the congregation of those that had been carried away." - This describes the consequence of not turning back. The people who were lost and broken during the plague had left God’s presence and are now estranged from him. "Congregation" refers to a community or group – in this case, the Jewish people. In simpler terms: Think of it like this: If you don't make an effort to turn away from your mistakes, your entire life—your soul—is at risk. It’s a strong warning against sin and a call for repentance. What does this mean in the context of our lives today? This verse reminds us that repentance is crucial. It's not just about saying "I'm sorry," but about actively changing your behavior, seeking forgiveness from God, and being faithful to Him. It’s a call for serious reflection and a commitment to living a righteous life. Important Note: The context of this verse comes from a very old and complex history. It speaks to the deep issues of Israel's brokenness and the need for a fundamental shift in their relationship with God. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific aspect of Christian theology (e.g., sin, forgiveness)?