Definition: Thou shalt bring down the noise of strangers, as the heat in a dry place; [even] the heat with the shadow of a cloud: the branch of the terrible ones shall be brought low.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break this Bible verse down. It's a pretty poetic and symbolic one, and it speaks to a big idea about peace and justice. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that true peace and harmony will eventually come when the things that cause conflict and chaos are silenced. Let’s unpack each part: “Thou shalt bring down the noise of strangers…” – "Stranger" here refers to those who disrupt peace, who cause problems, or who are causing conflict. It's not necessarily about any stranger, but rather those who are actively trying to harm or destabilize things. “…as the heat in a dry place…” – This is a powerful metaphor. A dry place is barren and lifeless. Just like a dry place lacks life and nourishment, this represents a situation where there's no peace, justice, or opportunity for growth. It’s a space devoid of positive energy. “[even] the heat with the shadow of a cloud…” – “Heat” here symbolizes something negative – anger, bitterness, division, hatred, or any kind of unrest. “Shadow of a cloud” represents a period of darkness and uncertainty that will eventually pass. “…the branch of the terrible ones shall be brought low.” - This is the most significant part. "Terrible ones" refers to those who are actively causing harm, oppression, or injustice – perhaps leaders, groups, or individuals who are driven by negativity and violence. “Branch of the tree” suggests that these negative forces aren’t permanent; they’ll eventually wither and die. In essence, it's a prophecy about a time when conflict will subside and peace will return. It’s not saying everything will be perfect immediately, but rather that a significant shift in the atmosphere – a decrease in negativity and an increase in harmony – is coming. It speaks to a long-term process of healing and restoration. What does this mean for us today? Many people interpret this verse as a promise of a future where we can move beyond conflict, bitterness, and division in our lives and communities. It encourages us to look for ways to cultivate peace – both internally and externally – because those who are actively causing negativity will eventually fade away. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with a specific example? Discuss the context of this passage in the Bible?