Definition: And her merchandise and her hire shall be holiness to the LORD: it shall not be treasured nor laid up; for her merchandise shall be for them that dwell before the LORD, to eat sufficiently, and for durable clothing.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible verse together. It’s a pretty poetic and symbolic passage from Isaiah, and it speaks about a future time when God is going to bless a woman who is truly devoted to Him. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Overall Meaning: The verse essentially says that this woman will be blessed by God, and her wealth (and any possessions) will be used for the benefit of those who are already living before God – meaning those who are close to him and devoted to Him. It’s a promise of abundance and security for those who trust in God. Let's break it down word by word: “Isaiah 23:18” : This is the title of the verse, indicating it’s from the Book of Isaiah. “And her merchandise and her hire shall be holiness to the LORD:” This means that anything she possesses – her money, her labor, everything – should be used for God's glory. “Holiness” here refers to being pleasing to God. It’s about aligning with His will and being a reflection of His goodness. “it shall not be treasured nor laid up; for her merchandise shall be for them that dwell before the LORD, to eat sufficiently, and for durable clothing.” This is the core of the message: “it shall not be treasured nor laid up” : Don’t hoard or keep things for yourself. Focus on using what you have for God's benefit. “for them that dwell before the LORD” : This refers to people who are already connected to God, those who live in a relationship with Him and are seeking His guidance and blessing. It’s about being positioned to receive His favor. “to eat sufficiently” : This means she will have enough to survive and thrive because of God's provision. “and for durable clothing” : This speaks to a secure and comfortable life, perhaps symbolized by strong clothes that protect her from hardship and allow her to live comfortably. In essence, the verse is saying that a woman who is truly devoted to God will be blessed with plenty and security through her possessions, and that she should use them to serve God and benefit those around her. Possible Interpretations: A Promise of Blessing: It’s a blessing for believers, promising them prosperity and protection. Focus on Service: It encourages us to be generous with our resources and focus on serving others – because God wants us to use what we have for His purposes. God's Providence: It suggests that God is actively working in the lives of those who are faithful to Him, providing for them in ways we can’t always see. Do you want me to elaborate on any part of this verse? For example, would you like a more detailed explanation of the symbolism involved, or perhaps how this verse relates to other biblical stories?