Definition: Thine heart shall meditate terror. Where [is] the scribe? where [is] the receiver? where [is] he that counted the towers?
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this biblical passage together. It's a really powerful and poetic verse from Isaiah 33, and it speaks to a deep sense of impending judgment and divine protection. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about God’s awareness of something significant happening – something that will ultimately lead to a terrible outcome. It's not just any bad thing happening; it’s a specific, carefully planned event. The message is that God knows everything. Let’s unpack each part: “Thine heart shall meditate terror.” This means God is aware of the fear and anxiety that will be felt by those involved in this situation. It's not just a feeling; it’s a deep, unsettling awareness of what’s to come. Think of it as a growing sense of dread. “Where [is] the scribe?” The "scribe" is a person who meticulously records and tracks things – like numbers, accounts, or measurements. It suggests there's a hidden or secretive group involved in this plan. This implies that something is being carefully planned and monitored. “Where [is] the receiver?” This is where it gets really interesting. "Receiver" refers to someone who receives or is involved in what’s happening – perhaps a person, a group, or even a system. It's about who will be affected by this outcome. “Where [is] he that counted the towers?” This is the most dramatic part and is symbolic. “Towers” represent something significant - power, wealth, stability – that is being threatened or destroyed. The question "where is he?" implies a specific person or group involved in this destruction or manipulation of these towers. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: This verse isn't about a single event happening right now . It’s a message of divine foreknowledge and protection. God knows the details of what’s coming, even if we don’t understand it fully. He’s anticipating a terrible outcome – possibly war, chaos, or a great loss – and is actively preparing for it. Why is this important? It's a message of hope because it suggests God isn't passively allowing things to happen. He is actively working to protect us from harm, even when we can’t see what he’s doing. It’s a reminder that there's a larger plan at work and that God is always watching and protecting. In short: This verse warns of impending doom but also offers comfort – because God knows everything and will intervene to prevent the disaster, even if we don’t see it coming. --- Do you want me to: Explain a particular part of this verse in more detail? Relate it to a specific story or event in the Bible?