Definition: Thy princes [are] rebellious, and companions of thieves: every one loveth gifts, and followeth after rewards: they judge not the fatherless, neither doth the cause of the widow come unto them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 1:23. It’s a pretty serious warning about how people can be influenced by selfishness and disregard for others. Here's a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that some people are becoming disobedient to God and prioritizing their own desires over the needs of others. They’re focused on getting rewards (gifts, praise, etc.) rather than caring for those who aren’t receiving them. Let's unpack it word by word: “Isaiah 1:23” : This refers to a prophecy written in Isaiah, a book in the Old Testament of the Bible. “Thy princes [are] rebellious…” : This means “Your princes (leaders) are rebellious.” The word "princes" here refers to rulers or leaders – specifically, the royal family of Judah. The key is that they’re disobedient . “…and companions of thieves:” This is a crucial part. “Thieves” represents those who are greedy, selfish, and exploit others for their own benefit. They're not just being dishonest; they're actively taking advantage of people without regard for their well-being. “every one loveth gifts, and followeth after rewards:” This means "Every person loves gifts (things) and follows after rewards.” It’s highlighting a pattern: people are seeking things that bring them pleasure and recognition, even if it means harming others or being unkind. “they judge not the fatherless, neither doth the cause of the widow come unto them:” This is where it gets really important. “Judge not the fatherless” – meaning they don't show compassion to those who are vulnerable and without support (like children or widows). "Neither doth the cause of the widow come unto them” - this implies that they don’t care about the hardships faced by those who are struggling, especially those in a vulnerable position. Overall Meaning: Isaiah 1:23 warns against a spiritual condition where people become focused on material rewards and personal gain at the expense of others. It's a call to repentance – a turning away from selfish behavior and focusing on compassion, justice, and caring for those who are suffering. Why is this important? It’s a reminder that true faith isn't just about religious belief; it’s also about being kind, generous, and responsible towards everyone around us. It encourages humility and empathy. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of the verse in more detail? Give an example of how this principle applies to real-life situations?