Definition: Thou art filled with shame for glory: drink thou also, and let thy foreskin be uncovered: the cup of the LORDâS right hand shall be turned unto thee, and shameful spewing [shall be] on thy glory.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Habakkuk 2:16. It’s a really powerful and complex passage, but I’ll try to explain it in a way that’s understandable. Here's the gist: This verse is speaking about someone who feels deeply ashamed or humiliated because they are witnessing something terrible happening – often, injustice or suffering. The speaker is essentially saying: "You are feeling very bad about yourself and your situation because of what you see." Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Thou art filled with shame for glory…” This means the person feels a deep sense of guilt, regret, or embarrassment. “Glory” in this context is really important – it refers to their reputation, status, or perceived importance in the eyes of others. They feel like they’ve lost something valuable. “Drink thou also, and let thy foreskin be uncovered…” This is a symbolic image. The “cup of the LORD’s right hand” represents God's power and protection – his grace and favor. When the foreskin (the skin covering the head) is uncovered, it symbolizes vulnerability and lack of dignity. “the shameful spewing [shall be] on thy glory.” This is the most intense part. “Shameful spewing” means releasing a torrent of negativity – anger, resentment, despair – onto their reputation and standing. It's like a flood of negative emotions washing over them. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: The verse describes a person who feels deeply troubled by the suffering they see in the world. They are consumed by shame and believe their own worth is diminished because of this suffering. It’s a powerful expression of deep despair and a recognition that something is profoundly wrong. What does it mean in the context of the Bible? Justice & Suffering: Habakkuk 2:16 was written during a time of great political turmoil and oppression, when people were suffering greatly under a tyrannical ruler. It’s a response to injustice. God's Sovereignty: It also speaks to the idea that God is in control and can punish those who are defiant against him. The Importance of Humility: The verse highlights the importance of humility – acknowledging our own fallibility and recognizing that we don't have all the answers. It’s a warning! It urges us to consider what we are doing, how we are reacting to suffering, and to seek God's guidance when facing difficult situations. Important Note: This is a complex passage, and different interpretations exist. However, this explanation attempts to capture the core message of the verse – a deep sense of shame and the potential for negative consequences stemming from witnessing injustice. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific story or theme in the Bible?