Definition: But they also have erred through wine, and through strong drink are out of the way; the priest and the prophet have erred through strong drink, they are swallowed up of wine, they are out of the way through strong drink; they err in vision, they stumble [in] judgment.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Isaiah 28:7. It's a pretty serious warning about people who are overly focused on pleasure and distractions – specifically, alcohol and excessive partying. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Message: This verse is saying that people are distracted and unfocused because they’re using alcohol and strong drinks to excess. It’s like they’ve gotten lost in a haze of enjoyment and aren't thinking clearly or responsibly. Let’s unpack it word by word: “But they also have erred through wine, and through strong drink are out of the way…” – This is a straightforward statement: people are making mistakes because they’re drinking too much. “…the priest and the prophet have erred through strong drink, they are swallowed up of wine…” - The priests and prophets (religious leaders) were also indulging in excessive drinking. The word "swallowed up" suggests being completely consumed by their enjoyment. “they err in vision, they stumble in judgment.” – This is the really important part. It means: “Err in vision”: They’re losing sight of true things - God, faith, and righteousness. They're having a distorted view of reality. “Stumble in judgment”: They are making poor decisions that lead them away from right and good. They’re not acting with wisdom or moral responsibility. Overall Interpretation – What it Means for Us Today: Isaiah 28:7 is a call to reflection . It's urging us to look back at our own lives and consider whether we might be engaging in similar patterns – using substances excessively, prioritizing pleasure over purpose, and losing sight of what truly matters. It’s a reminder that true life isn’t about endless enjoyment; it’s about focusing on God, living righteously, and making wise choices. In short: This verse warns against letting your desires for pleasure overshadow your spiritual life and moral responsibility. It’s a plea to cultivate a balanced and focused approach to life. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these points in more detail? Give you a related passage from the Bible?