Definition: Then said Eliakim and Shebna and Joah unto Rabshakeh, Speak, I pray thee, unto thy servants in the Syrian language; for we understand [it]: and speak not to us in the Jews’ language, in the ears of the people that [are] on the wall.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Isaiah 36:11. It’s a really interesting and dramatic passage about a secret being revealed. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: Rabshakeh is in trouble: Rabshakeh was a high-ranking official in the court of King Jehu of Israel. He was known for being a bit… secretive and perhaps a little manipulative. Eliakim and Shebna are tasked with speaking: Two men named Eliakim and Shebna were given a very important job – to speak to Rabshakeh in his own language. This is crucial because the verse says they “understand [it].” They're communicating a secret: The verse emphasizes that they’re not just talking; they are speaking in a language he doesn’t understand . This suggests they’re revealing something significant and potentially dangerous. What’s Happening – A Quick Summary: The Bible tells us that the King of Israel, Jehu, had discovered a plot by Rabshakeh to kill the prophet Elijah. Jehu, fearing for his own life and the safety of the people, ordered the spies to investigate. They found Elijah in a secret place, and then, very quickly , the King’s men, led by Rabshakeh, attacked Elijah and cast him down a flight of stairs! The Meaning – A Layered Interpretation: Now, here’s where it gets a little more profound: “Understand [it]” : This is key. They understand the situation – the impending danger to Elijah. They know what’s happening and why. “Speak not in the Jews' language, in the ears of the people on the wall” : This is where it gets symbolic. The "people on the wall" refers to a group of onlookers – likely the people who were watching from a distance. The fact that they’re speaking in his own language suggests this is a very private conversation, perhaps one that could be easily overheard or misinterpreted. It's about protecting a secret and preventing it from spreading. Overall Significance: This verse paints a picture of a moment of intense secrecy and danger. It highlights the importance of keeping secrets, the potential for betrayal, and the fact that even a seemingly small event can have huge consequences. In essence, this passage shows that the secret revealed – Elijah’s fate – was so critical that it needed to be spoken in a way that wouldn't be easily understood or detected. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these concepts further? Connect this verse to other Bible stories? Provide a more detailed explanation of the historical context?