Definition: Behold, thou hast driven me out this day from the face of the earth; and from thy face shall I be hid; and I shall be a fugitive and a vagabond in the earth; and it shall come to pass, [that] every one that findeth me shall slay me.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly powerful verse from Genesis 4:14. It’s a really significant passage about God’s judgment and a shift in his relationship with humanity. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes a moment of extreme isolation and danger for God, and it’s essentially saying that he is being deliberately separated from the world – and potentially humanity – forever. It’s a very dramatic and unsettling image. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Genesis 4:14” : This refers to a specific event in the beginning of human history, when God created Adam and placed him in the Garden of Eden. “Behold, thou hast driven me out this day…” : This is a very dramatic way of saying that God felt betrayed or angry. He was actively removing himself from the world. It's not just a passing moment; it’s a deliberate action. “…from the face of the earth; and from thy face shall I be hidden…” : This means God is being deliberately removed from our experience – he’s becoming invisible, unseen, and distant. He’s choosing to remain isolated and separate. It's like a spotlight shining on him, making him less accessible. “And I shall be a fugitive and a vagabond in the earth…” : This describes his state of being – completely lost and without a place to belong. He’s not part of society; he's wandering aimlessly. “…and it shall come to pass, [that] every one that findeth me shall slay me.” : This is the most chilling part. It promises a consequence for anyone who finds God. The phrase "it shall come to pass" means this will happen eventually . And the promise – “every one that findeth me” – is that everyone will eventually try to kill him! What does it mean in a broader sense? This verse speaks to several important themes: God’s Sovereignty: It shows God's absolute control over his creation. He isn't just watching from afar; he’s actively choosing to be apart from us. The Problem of Evil: It raises a fundamental question about why evil and suffering exist in the world. If God is so good, why does he allow people to die and experience pain? This verse suggests that evil isn't random; it’s part of a plan orchestrated by God. Human Responsibility: It also hints at our responsibility – we are not meant to be completely separate from God. We have a choice to live in a way that honors him, and to avoid actions that could lead us towards this frightening state. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a foreshadowing of the fall of humanity into sin and evil, but it’s more about God's deliberate separation from humanity than a prediction of immediate doom. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Discuss the theological significance of this passage? Compare it to other biblical passages that deal with isolation or judgment?