Definition: Shall I not, as I have done unto Samaria and her idols, so do to Jerusalem and her idols?
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Isaiah 10:11. It's a really powerful and unsettling verse that highlights a serious warning about idolatry. Here’s an explanation in simple terms: What it means: This verse is saying that the author of Isaiah (a prophet in ancient Jewish history) is warning about what happened to Samaria and her worshippers – they had gods and idols, and the author is suggesting that if Jerusalem (which was a prominent city at the time) also falls into the same trap, then it will lead to similar consequences. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Shall I not…” : This phrase sets up a comparison. It’s like saying "I'm going to do this..." or “This is what I intend.” "...as I have done unto Samaria and her idols..." : This is the core of the warning. It refers to the story of Samaria. Samaria was a large city that worshipped many gods, including the worship of a false god named Baal. The author is pointing out that they made the same mistake – they created idols and worshipped them. "...so do to Jerusalem and her idols?" : This is the crucial part. It’s saying that if Jerusalem falls into the same pattern as Samaria, then it will also be tempted to worship false gods. It's a warning about the danger of idolatry – worshipping anything other than God. What does this mean in a broader sense? Idolatry is wrong: The verse essentially condemns the practice of worshipping idols or false gods. It’s a serious warning against focusing on things that aren't connected to God. It’s about spiritual corruption: The author isn't just talking about physical objects. He’s suggesting that idolatry corrupts people, leading them away from true faith and righteousness. It’s a threat to the kingdom of God: The Bible often portrays God as ruling over his people and establishing a perfect kingdom. This verse warns that if people stray from their righteous path, it can disrupt this order and lead to chaos. Important Note: The context of Isaiah 10:11 is important. It's part of a larger message about judgment and the coming of God’s kingdom. The author is essentially saying that if the world continues down its current path, there will be a time when God will punish those who are unfaithful to him. In short: Isaiah 10:11 is a stark warning against idolatry – worshipping false gods – because it threatens the true and righteous way of life as described in the Bible. --- Would you like me to: Explain this verse further with examples? Discuss its connection to other parts of the Bible? Answer any specific questions you might have about it?