Definition: Therefore shall the land mourn, and every one that dwelleth therein shall languish, with the beasts of the field, and with the fowls of heaven; yea, the fishes of the sea also shall be taken away.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Hosea 4:3. It’s a really powerful and sobering message about God’s judgment and the consequences of sin. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes a devastating time when God is punishing people for their broken relationship with Him. Think of it like a natural disaster – it’s going to be incredibly painful and destructive. Let’s unpack each part: “Therefore shall the land mourn…” : This means the entire land, including its people, will feel sorrow and sadness. It's not just individual people; the whole region will be filled with grief. “…and every one that dwelleth therein shall languish…” : “Languish” means to suffer greatly or to decline in health and well-being. This suggests a general state of misery, a lack of vitality, and a downward spiral. It’s not just individual suffering; the entire community is facing hardship. “with the beasts of the field, and with the fowls of heaven…” : This refers to animals – cattle, sheep, birds – all creatures that are part of nature and depend on the land for their survival. Their suffering mirrors the suffering of people. “…yea, the fishes of the sea also shall be taken away.” : This is a particularly stark image. It highlights that even natural things – the fish in the ocean – will suffer because of the brokenness. Overall Meaning: Hosea 4:3 paints a picture of a time when God’s judgment falls upon people, and their lives are choked by misfortune – hardship, loss, and decay. It's a consequence of sin and disobedience. It’s a warning about the importance of turning away from God and seeking reconciliation with Him. Why is this important? This verse speaks to our understanding of: God’s Justice: It shows that God isn’t just angry; He’s righteous and will hold people accountable for their choices. The Consequences of Sin: It highlights that sin leads to suffering, not just for the individual but for all of creation. Redemption through Forgiveness: The verse also implies a path towards restoration – through repentance and forgiveness from God. In short, Hosea 4:3 warns us about the devastating consequences of our choices and calls us to seek a renewed relationship with God. --- Do you want me to explain any of these points in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain the context of Hosea 4? Discuss what this verse might mean for our lives today?