Definition: How is the faithful city become an harlot! it was full of judgment; righteousness lodged in it; but now murderers.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from Isaiah 1:21. It’s a really powerful and somewhat unsettling verse, and it speaks to a serious problem with society. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that a city that was once filled with justice, righteousness, and good people has fallen into chaos and becomes a “murderer” – a place of violence and destruction. It's like a beautiful, thriving community that has suddenly become dangerous. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Isaiah 1:21 How is the faithful city become an harlot!” - "Faithful city" refers to a perfect, righteous society – one governed by God and guided by moral principles. "Harlot" is a somewhat archaic word that means a wild, unruly, or scandalous woman. So, it's describing a situation where a pure and good community has become corrupted. “it was full of judgment; righteousness lodged in it” - This part acknowledges that the city used to be virtuous. It had established laws and principles that kept things fair and just. Think of it as a strong foundation built on goodness. "but now murderers." – This is the core of the message. "Murderers" means people who commit violence, harm, or wickedness. The city has fallen into a state where there's an overwhelming amount of crime, conflict, and brutality. It’s a place where people are driven to do evil. Overall Meaning & Context: Isaiah 1:21 is a warning about the potential for societal decay. It suggests that even the most established and well-ordered communities can be vulnerable if they lose their moral compass. It's not just about individual bad people; it’s about a systemic problem – a decline in ethical standards that allows wickedness to flourish. Why is this important? This verse is often interpreted as a call for repentance and reform. It suggests that we all have the responsibility to strive for righteousness and prevent our societies from falling into darkness. It's a reminder that maintaining moral order is crucial for a thriving community. Important Note: The meaning of Isaiah 1:21 has been debated by scholars for centuries. There’s no single, definitive interpretation. However, it continues to be a significant and thought-provoking message about the importance of ethical behavior. --- Would you like me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Talk about how this passage relates to other biblical stories or teachings? Discuss potential interpretations of the "murderer" imagery?