Definition: So that the people could not discern the noise of the shout of joy from the noise of the weeping of the people: for the people shouted with a loud shout, and the noise was heard afar off.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezra 3:13. It's a really interesting and slightly unusual passage that speaks to a moment in history! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: The people were so joyful – they were celebrating something big – that their voices were so loud that they were almost overwhelming. It was like a massive, joyous explosion of sound. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “So that the people could not discern…” This is key. The authors are saying this wasn’t just a regular celebration. It was a special celebration. They were so excited they couldn’t focus on what was happening. “…the noise of the shout of joy from the noise of the weeping…” This is where it gets a bit more complex. The verse initially presents two distinct sounds: “The noise of the shout of joy” : This represents the pure, ecstatic happiness of the people. Think of a huge burst of laughter and celebration. “The noise of the weeping…” – This is important. It’s quiet and subdued. It's the sound of sadness, perhaps from loss or hardship. “…of the people…” - It’s about the entire group of people who were celebrating. So, what’s happening? The verse describes a situation where the joyful celebration was so intense that it created an overwhelming and unfocused sound. It's like a powerful wave of sound that drowned out other things. The Significance (What it might mean): This is often interpreted as a symbol of a time when people were experiencing a very strong, perhaps even overwhelming, sense of joy – but also a deep sadness or grief that was being suppressed. It suggests that sometimes, excessive celebration can be a symptom of something deeper. In short: The verse describes a moment where the sheer intensity of joyous celebration clashed with quiet sorrow, creating an almost deafening sound. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Ezra 3? Provide a more detailed explanation of the symbolism in this verse?