Definition: So shall the king of Assyria lead away the Egyptians prisoners, and the Ethiopians captives, young and old, naked and barefoot, even with [their] buttocks uncovered, to the shame of Egypt.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 20:4. It’s a really powerful warning about the potential for conflict and devastation. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes a future scenario where Assyria – a powerful empire located in Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq) – will be leading away the Egyptians and Ethiopians, who are currently held captive. It’s focusing on a massive invasion and a complete stripping of their resources and dignity. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “So shall the king of Assyria…” : This establishes who is responsible – Assyria, a powerful and often aggressive kingdom known for its military might. “…lead away the Egyptians prisoners…” : This means Assyria will be actively taking Egyptian people captive. “…and the Ethiopians captives…” : Similarly, it refers to capturing Ethiopians. “young and old, naked and barefoot…” : This is the key part. It’s not just about them being captured; they're being treated with extreme disrespect and humiliation. They are stripped of their clothes and forced to appear vulnerable. “…naked and barefoot…” : This emphasizes their lack of protection and makes them easy targets. “even with [their] buttocks uncovered…” : This is a shocking detail. It’s suggesting that they will be exposed, revealing their nakedness, which is a symbol of shame and powerlessness. "...to the shame of Egypt." : This is the ultimate consequence. Assyria's actions will be so devastating that they will bring shame (a feeling of disgrace or embarrassment) to Egypt – its most powerful nation at the time. What does it mean in a broader sense? This verse isn’t just about a specific war; it’s a warning about the potential for immense destruction and oppression. It speaks to: The rise of evil: It suggests that Assyria is a symbol of a future threat – a powerful empire that will seek to dominate and oppress others. Divine judgment: The verse carries a strong sense of divine judgment, as it points to an event that will bring about significant consequences for those who oppose God’s plan. The importance of vigilance: It encourages people to be watchful and prepared for potential threats, recognizing that evil can arise from unexpected places. In short, Isaiah 20:4 describes a future battle where Assyria will deliberately strip away the vulnerable and humiliating of their power and dignity, with the goal of causing shame to Egypt. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to other Bible stories or themes? Discuss the historical context of this passage?