Definition: And it shall come to pass, [that] thy choicest valleys shall be full of chariots, and the horsemen shall set themselves in array at the gate.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from Isaiah 22:7. It’s a pretty dramatic and symbolic verse! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it’s saying that God is going to bring about a time of great peace and victory for His people. Let’s unpack the parts: “And it shall come to pass…”: This is a general statement – something significant is about to happen. It's not a specific event we can see right now, but rather a future occurrence. “…that thy choicest valleys shall be full of chariots…”: "Choicest valleys" means the most fertile, prosperous, and abundant areas. "Chariots" are horse-drawn vehicles – think of them as fast, powerful, organized armies or groups of soldiers. So, this suggests a time when God’s people will have plenty of opportunities to thrive and prosper. “…and the horsemen shall set themselves in array at the gate.”: "Horsemen" refers to military leaders and warriors – think of them as those leading armies and preparing for battle. “Setting themselves in array” means they're ready and organized, positioned to defend or lead something. “The gate” symbolizes a threshold, a point of entry or exit – perhaps a time of great change or an opportunity to enter a new era. So, the whole verse is painting a picture of a future where God’s people will experience incredible abundance and strength. It’s suggesting that He's preparing for a time when His followers will be powerful and successful. It’s often interpreted as a prophecy about Israel’s future prosperity and victory against its enemies. It speaks to the idea of God actively working for his people, leading them to success. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Provide context for it within the larger book of Isaiah? Discuss what some theologians might interpret it as meaning?