Definition: In the seventh [month], in the one and twentieth [day] of the month, came the word of the LORD by the prophet Haggai, saying,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Haggai 2:1. It's a really important part of the book and sets up a big story! Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, this verse is announcing that God is going to speak to people about rebuilding something. Let’s unpack it further: “Haggai”: This is the name of a prophet who lived during the time Noah rebuilt the Ark. Haggai was a leader and speaker in the rebuilding project. “2:1”: This marks the beginning of a message. It's like a starting point for a story. “In the seventh [month], in the one and twentieth [day] of the month…” – This tells us when this message will happen. It’s talking about a specific date, a specific time within the month. We don't know exactly which month it is - that’s part of the mystery! “came the word of the LORD by the prophet Haggai…” – This means God (the Lord) is going to speak to people through Haggai. A prophet is someone who carries God's message. So, what does this mean in a nutshell? God wants to tell us that He’s planning to lead people back to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem – which was already destroyed by the Babylonians. This message is like a warning and a call to action! It's setting up a big project that will be incredibly important for the future of Israel. In short, it’s a sign that God is about to start working on rebuilding something significant. --- Do you want me to: Explain why this message is important? Give you some context about the rebuilding project in Jerusalem? Talk about what the message might specifically say?

Definition: In the four and twentieth [day] of the ninth [month], in the second year of Darius, came the word of the LORD by Haggai the prophet, saying,

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from Hosea’s book – it’s a really important part of understanding what happened before the rise of the Jewish monarchy. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: “Haggai 2:10 In the four and twentieth [day] of the ninth [month], in the second year of Darius, came the word of the LORD by Haggai the prophet, saying…” Let's unpack it piece by piece: "Haggai 2:10" : This refers to a specific event that happened back in Jerusalem around 60 AD. It’s named after a man named Haggai, who was a teacher and craftsman. “In the four and twentieth [day] of the ninth [month]” : This tells us when it happened – it was on a specific date. The “fourth and twentieth” refers to the fourth day of the ninth month. It’s important to note that this is a very precise date. “in the second year of Darius” : This is where it gets really interesting. Darius was King of Persia (modern-day Iran). It was his second year on the throne. “came the word of the LORD by Haggai the prophet…” : This means that God spoke to Haggai, a prophet (someone who speaks for God), through him. So, putting it all together: This verse describes a significant event where God sent a message to Haggai. It was happening in the second year of Darius’s reign, and this message was delivered by God himself – essentially, a divine word. Why is this important? This passage is key to understanding why God chose to intervene in Israel's situation before the rise of King David. It shows that God wasn't just talking to them; He was actively communicating with them through a prophet. This message was meant to prepare them for a major shift in their future, leading ultimately to the establishment of the kingdom under David and then Solomon. --- Do you want me to: Explain any particular part of this verse further? Connect it to a specific historical event or theme?

Definition: Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Ask now the priests [concerning] the law, saying,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Haggai 2:11. It's a really important and slightly mysterious part of the biblical text. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is telling us to seek guidance from God about a specific task. It’s like saying, “Hey Lord, we need your help with this.” It's a call for a group of people – likely the builders of the Second Temple in Jerusalem – to get a clear set of instructions. Let’s unpack it word-by-word: “Haggai”: This is a name for a specific prophet, Haggai, who was part of a group of leaders working on a large construction project. “2:11”: This is the verse itself – a passage from the book of Haggai. “Thus saith the LORD of hosts…” - This is a very formal way of saying "The Lord speaks..." It's emphasizing that this is a serious and important message coming from God. “Ask now the priests [concerning] the law…” – This is the crucial part! “Priests” refers to the religious officials who were responsible for interpreting and enforcing the laws of the Old Testament. “Concerning” means "about" or "regarding." So, this verse says: “Go now, the priests – specifically, the leaders and officials – should be told that they need to understand and establish a new set of rules (the law) for building the Second Temple.” What’s the Big Picture? This verse is part of a larger story. God had been preparing for the construction of the Second Temple – a magnificent temple where Jewish people could worship and pray. The builders needed to have a clear, detailed set of laws (the Torah or the first five books of the Bible) to ensure the temple was built correctly and served as a place of divine worship. In short: God is telling the leaders to get a new set of rules for building the Second Temple – so they can do it properly and safely. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these concepts in more detail? Give you an example of how this verse might be used in a story or biblical context?

Definition: If one bear holy flesh in the skirt of his garment, and with his skirt do touch bread, or pottage, or wine, or oil, or any meat, shall it be holy? And the priests answered and said, No.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Haggai 2:12. It’s a really important part of understanding how the Israelites were preparing for building a new temple in Jerusalem. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about strict rules for those who are involved in the construction and worship of God’s holy temple. It’s saying that only people who are completely dedicated to God and his purpose can truly be allowed to handle sacred items – like bread, wine, oil, or meat – within the temple. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “If one bear holy flesh in the skirt of his garment…” : This is a really vivid image. It suggests someone who is completely focused on God and his work. It’s not about being nice or polite; it’s about a deep, unwavering commitment to holiness. Think of it like wearing a sacred robe – you're representing something very important. "...and with his skirt do touch bread, or pottage, or wine, or oil, or any meat…” : This is the crucial part. It means that any physical contact with these items – while they’re being prepared or handled – would be considered a violation of God's law and a sign of impurity. It’s not just about looking at them; it’s about doing something with them. “Shall it be holy?” : This is the question that's asked. The builders are asking, "Will this be allowed?" "And the priests answered and said, No." – The priests, who were responsible for maintaining the temple’s purity and carrying out rituals, responded with a clear “No.” What does it all mean practically? Essentially, this verse warns against any kind of casual or inappropriate contact with sacred items. It was a very strict rule to protect the sanctity of God's presence and ensure that only those who were truly devoted could be entrusted with such things. It emphasized a profound level of reverence and commitment. In short, it’s about upholding the highest standards of holiness by limiting access to anything associated with sacredness. Why is this important? This story illustrates a key principle in Jewish tradition: the sanctity of God's presence is paramount. It highlights that true worship and devotion are reserved for those who are deeply connected to God’s will. --- Do you want me to: Explain another passage from Haggai? Discuss the historical context of this verse? Give a more metaphorical interpretation of the image?

Definition: Then said Haggai, If [one that is] unclean by a dead body touch any of these, shall it be unclean? And the priests answered and said, It shall be unclean.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Haggai 2:13. Here's what it means in simple terms: What’s Happening? This verse comes from a section of the Old Testament called “Haggai,” which is about rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem after the destruction of the first Temple. God wants to make sure the temple is completely clean and pure. Let's unpack it: “Then said Haggai…” : This sets up a conversation – Haggai is speaking. “…If [one that is] unclean by a dead body touch any of these…” : This is the key part. It means if anyone touches a corpse (a human remains) while working on the temple, they will be considered unclean. “shall it be unclean?” : This means they'll be marked as not fit to participate in the rebuilding or worship of God. “And the priests answered and said, It shall be unclean.” - The priests are involved in the building project. They’re trying to make sure everything is done correctly according to God's instructions. They respond that it must be clean – they will not participate if there’s a corpse present. What does this tell us? This verse highlights a serious concern about purity and holiness. It emphasizes the importance of absolute cleanliness and responsibility in the rebuilding of God’s house. In essence, it's a warning against impurity and a reminder that everyone involved in a sacred undertaking must be completely dedicated to God’s will. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this passage within the larger context of the Old Testament?

Definition: Then answered Haggai, and said, So [is] this people, and so [is] this nation before me, saith the LORD; and so [is] every work of their hands; and that which they offer there [is] unclean.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Haggai 2:14. It's a really important part of understanding what happened in God’s plan for the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God is very disappointed with the people building the temple. He’s pointing out that they weren't building it according to his instructions and are offering something that isn't clean or pure. Let’s unpack it word by word: “Then answered Haggai…” - This refers to Haggai, a young man who was part of the team tasked with rebuilding the temple. “…and said, So [is] this people, and so [is] this nation before me, saith the LORD;” – Haggai is telling him God is saying this: “This people… and this nation… are before Me.” “Saith the Lord” means it’s a direct message from God. “…and so [is] every work of their hands; and that which they offer there [is] unclean.” - This is the key part. Haggai is saying: “Every single thing they are building – everything they make – is tainted, dirty, or not good enough. It’s not right to offer it to God as a sacrifice.” It highlights that their efforts were being used for something that wasn't aligned with God’s will. What does this mean in bigger picture? God’s Perfect Standards: The verse is telling us that God has very high standards for how things should be done – especially when it comes to worship and sacrifice. He doesn’t accept anything less than perfect. A Warning: It's a warning to the builders to be careful and to make sure they are doing everything perfectly, according to God’s instructions. In essence, this verse is a call for diligence and faithfulness. God wants his people to build something that reflects His glory and serves Him well. --- Do you want me to: Explain it in another way? Connect it to a specific biblical story?

Definition: And now, I pray you, consider from this day and upward, from before a stone was laid upon a stone in the temple of the LORD:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Haggai 2:15. It's a really important part of a biblical story about rebuilding the Temple in Jerusalem. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God is telling us to seriously focus on rebuilding the temple. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And now, I pray you…” - This is a direct plea from God. He’s addressing someone – likely the builders – and asking them to pay attention. “…consider from this day and upward…” - This means immediately , not just in the future, but starting right now and continuing throughout their work. It’s urging us to be proactive. “…from before a stone was laid upon a stone in the temple of the LORD.” – This is the key part! It's talking about the very first stone . The Old Testament describes this as the foundation of everything else. So, what’s happening? God wants these builders to understand that the Temple isn’t just a building; it’s a sacred place for worship and connection with God. It's a symbol of His presence and His power. He wants them to be incredibly careful and deliberate in building it, because it represents everything important about his relationship with humanity. Why is this important? The verse highlights that rebuilding the temple was not just a task , but a spiritual one. It’s a reminder that our actions should always be guided by reverence and devotion to God. It's saying, "Don’t rush; don’t take it lightly; build with purpose." In short, it's a call for dedication, meticulousness, and a deep understanding of what’s at stake – the very heart of faith. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this passage in the context of the Old Testament story?

Definition: Since those [days] were, when [one] came to an heap of twenty [measures], there were [but] ten: when [one] came to the pressfat for to draw out fifty [vessels] out of the press, there were [but] twenty.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Haggai 2:16. It’s a really important and somewhat mysterious passage in the Book of Haggai. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Story: Imagine God is working to build a magnificent temple in Jerusalem – a place for worship and connection with him. God has given instructions to build it, but there's a specific task he wants to complete. “Since those days…” : This tells us this is happening after the construction of the first partially built temple. “…when [one] came to an heap of twenty measures…” : A “measure” was a standard unit of measurement back then – likely something like a large, round container. God gave them 20 containers to fill with specific materials. “There were [but] ten…” : This means only ten of those containers were filled completely. “…when [one] came to the pressfat for to draw out fifty vessels out of the press…” : Now, this is where it gets interesting! God instructs them to draw out (like pouring) the contents of these 10 containers. He wants to use the liquid inside to make something special – 50 vessels. Think of them as empty jars or containers ready for a specific purpose. “There were [but] twenty.” : Finally, after this process, there were only twenty vessels remaining. Putting it All Together - The Message: The verse essentially says that God is giving instructions to fill 20 containers with something valuable (the liquid inside). But, due to a mistake or oversight, only 20 vessels are actually filled. This seems like a significant problem – it's not quite enough to complete the task. It’s a reminder of the importance of accuracy and careful attention to detail. What does this tell us about God? He’s watching closely: The verse shows that God is intensely focused on this task and isn’t just passively letting things happen. He's testing us: It suggests that there might be a challenge or something that needs to be addressed, even though the initial plan seems complete. In short, it describes a careful process of filling containers with liquid, but with a slight error – only 20 vessels were actually completed. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Haggai 2:16? Discuss the historical context (when was this likely happening)? Relate it to a modern-day principle?

Definition: I smote you with blasting and with mildew and with hail in all the labours of your hands; yet ye [turned] not to me, saith the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Haggai 2:17. It’s a really important message about God’s care for His people and their work. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Haggai is Called Back: The verse begins with a man named Haggai, who was already working on building a temple in the rebuilt city of Jerusalem. He’s called back to oversee the rebuilding project. God's Concern: God is concerned about what's happening. He sees that the people weren’t listening to him and weren't following his instructions. The Problem: Blasting, Mildew, and Hail: God uses vivid language to describe what happened – he sent down blasting (like a powerful explosion), mildew (a kind of mold), and hail (icy rain). These were all damaging the work. The People Didn’t Listen: The crucial part is that the people didn't turn to God when he was speaking to them. They continued to focus on their own concerns, their own tasks, and didn't listen for guidance or instruction. Putting it Together – What Does It Mean? This verse basically says: God’s judgment is severe when people fail to listen to Him. He's not just angry; he's actively punishing them for ignoring his direction. It’s a warning about the importance of obedience and listening to God’s voice, especially when it comes to important tasks like building a sacred place. The Significance: God’s Authority: It emphasizes that God is in charge and has the right to judge and correct His people. Responsibility: It reminds us that we all have a responsibility to listen to God's guidance, even when it feels inconvenient or difficult. Importance of Obedience: It urges us to be obedient to God’s commands and instructions in our lives – whether it’s in our work, our relationships, or everything else. In short, this verse is a gentle but firm call for people to listen to God's voice and follow his guidance. Do you want me to explain any of these parts further? For example, would you like me to: Explain the context of Haggai 2:17 within the larger story of rebuilding the temple? Discuss what "listening" means in a practical sense?

Definition: Consider now from this day and upward, from the four and twentieth day of the ninth [month, even] from the day that the foundation of the LORD’S temple was laid, consider [it].

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse. It's a really important part of the Old Testament Bible and it has some pretty serious meaning! Here’s what it says in simpler terms: “Consider now from this day and upward, from the four and twentieth day of the ninth [month, even] from the day that the foundation of the LORD’s temple was laid, consider it.” Let's unpack that: "Consider now..." : This isn’t a command to do anything. It's a call for reflection and thought. "...from this day and upward..." : This means we need to look at this instruction from now on, and all the way up to a specific point in time – the very beginning of the ninth month after the temple was built. It’s not just about the last few days; it's a long period of consideration. "...from the day that the foundation of the LORD’s temple was laid..." : This is the key part. The verse says we need to think about this instruction after the construction of the very first stone of the temple. It’s like a starting point, a moment when God initiated this monumental project. "...consider [it]": This means you need to study and understand what's being instructed – this particular instruction. So, basically, the verse is telling us that we have a specific time period (a long time after the temple was built) and it’s important for us to spend time reflecting on it. What does this mean in context? This verse is from the Book of Habakkuk, which is part of the Old Testament. It's often interpreted as a warning about a future time when God will be angry with humanity. The phrase "consider it" suggests that we need to be aware of what’s coming and prepare for it. It's about recognizing that there are serious consequences for our actions, and that God is watching us. In short, it’s a reminder to be thoughtful and prepared for something significant to happen. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Connect this verse to a specific story or theme in the Bible?