Definition: Where [are] they? where [are] thy wise [men]? and let them tell thee now, and let them know what the LORD of hosts hath purposed upon Egypt.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Isaiah 19:12. It's a really important verse about God’s plan for a region in Egypt. Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God has a specific plan for the land of Egypt – and it’s going to be very difficult for people there. He intends to use this land as a testing ground for His people, and he wants to show them what He wants for them. Let's unpack it word by word: "Where are they?" - This is asking about the wise men – people who are knowledgeable and skilled – in that area. "Where are thy wise men?" - This refers to a group of people, likely those with wisdom and insight. "Let them tell thee now, and let them know what the LORD of hosts hath purposed upon Egypt." - This is the core of the verse. "The LORD of hosts" – that's God himself – is saying He has a purpose for this region. He’s planning something significant for Egypt, and he wants to give those wise men a warning. “Has purposed” means he has decided on something. “Upon Egypt” means it will happen in this area of the land. What does this mean practically? It's essentially a prophecy about a major crisis that will occur in Egypt, and God is preparing for it to be a turning point for His people. It suggests: A difficult time ahead: The verse implies a period of hardship and trouble for the Egyptians. God’s plan for His people: It's not just about the Egyptians; it’s about God's ultimate plan for His chosen people, who are being called to persevere through trials. Important Note: This is a prophecy – meaning it describes what will happen, but doesn’t necessarily tell us exactly how it will unfold. It’s about the potential for something significant to occur in Egypt. --- To help me explain this verse further and tailor it to your needs, could you tell me: What are you hoping to understand from this verse? (e.g., Are you curious about its meaning, or its historical context?) Are there any specific aspects of the verse that you'd like me to focus on?