Definition: When the boughs thereof are withered, they shall be broken off: the women come, [and] set them on fire: for it [is] a people of no understanding: therefore he that made them will not have mercy on them, and he that formed them will shew them no favour.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 27:11. It's a really powerful and somewhat sobering message about the future of a people. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is warning us about a group of people who are going to be completely lost and destroyed. It suggests they are on a path that leads to complete darkness and suffering. Let's unpack it word by word: "When the boughs thereof are withered, they shall be broken off:" This means their spirit or way of life is decaying – like a plant losing its leaves and becoming weak. It’s not about physical decay; it’s about a spiritual decline. “the women come, [and] set them on fire:” This is the crucial part. “Women” refers to leaders – influential figures in this group. They're actively bringing their negativity, selfishness, and lack of understanding to this group. They’re setting these people ablaze with their bad behavior. “for it [is] a people of no understanding:” This is the core of the warning. “No understanding” means they don’t grasp God's truth, they don’t value Him, and they’re consumed by pride and foolishness. They are closed off to faith and righteousness. “therefore he that made them will not have mercy on them, and he that formed them will shew them no favour.” This is the consequence of their lack of understanding. The person who created this group won't show any compassion or kindness to them. They’ll continue to punish and mistreat them, showing them nothing good. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: Isaiah 27:11 is a prophecy about a specific group of people – likely a nation or ethnicity – that will be completely consumed by their own wickedness and lack of faith. It’s a warning against complacency, pride, and rejecting God's guidance. It emphasizes the importance of seeking God's truth and following His commandments to avoid destruction. Think of it like this: Imagine a beautiful garden (representing the people) that slowly withers and dies because of weeds (their negative qualities). The person who cultivated that garden (God) won’t allow it to fall into ruin, showing no kindness or favor to those who are allowed to die. --- Do you want me to: Explain a particular part of the verse in more detail? Connect this verse to a specific historical or biblical context? Discuss its symbolism beyond just a warning about people?