Definition: For the fields of Heshbon languish, [and] the vine of Sibmah: the lords of the heathen have broken down the principal plants thereof, they are come [even] unto Jazer, they wandered [through] the wilderness: her branches are stretched out, they are gone over the sea.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this Bible verse together. It’s a pretty poetic and symbolic passage from Isaiah, and it’s really about a time of great suffering and conflict in Israel. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Heshbon is the Focus: The verse centers around Heshbon, a city in Galilee. It's a place where a significant event happened – a conflict between people from the north and south. “Languish” and “Vine of Sibah” : The word "languish" means to be suffering or not thriving. The "vine of Sibah" is a really important part of this. It’s a long, twisting vine that grows in the mountains near Jerusalem – it's a symbol of a strong, healthy connection between Israel and God. This vine is broken now. “The Lords of the Heathens Have Broken Down the Plants” : "Lords of the heathen" refers to people who don’t follow God or respect His laws. They are actively destroying the things that connect Israel to God – the land, the traditions, and even the natural world. “Broken down the plants” means they're taking away the good things that were there before. “They Came unto Jazer” : Jazer is a place in Galilee. This is where the conflict really intensifies. “Wandered Through the Wilderness” : The people are wandering, lost and without direction, like someone lost in a difficult situation. “Her Branches Are Stretched Out, They Are Gone Over the Sea” : This is the most dramatic part. The branches of the vine (representing Israel) have been broken and spread out – they’re no longer connected to the land and to God. "Gone over the sea" symbolizes that they've been lost and are not being brought back to their rightful place. Overall Meaning - A Warning & a Hope: Isaiah 16:8 is a warning about a time of great trouble for Israel, but it also contains a message of hope. It’s saying that the situation is serious, but God will eventually restore things and bring them back to where they belong – to a place of peace and prosperity. It's a reminder that even when things seem bleak, there's still a promise of restoration and renewal. Think of it like this: It’s a dramatic picture of a broken connection between the people and God, but with the hope of eventually being reunited. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of the verse in more detail? Connect this passage to other Bible stories or themes? Give you some context about the time period when this verse was written?