Definition: Hearken unto me, ye stouthearted, that [are] far from righteousness:

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Isaiah 46:12. It’s a really important and slightly challenging one, so we’ll go through it step-by-step: What it means on the surface: The verse says, “Hearken unto me, ye stouthearted, that [are] far from righteousness.” It's essentially saying, "Listen closely – you people who are determined to stay away from what is right and good – you need to stop doing that!" Let’s unpack it layer by layer: “Isaiah 46:12” : This refers to a prophecy written by the prophet Isaiah in ancient times. It’s part of a larger collection of prophecies about the future. “Hearken unto me…” : This is a plea – a call for someone to listen carefully. "Listen to me..." suggests importance and significance. "...ye stouthearted…" : "Stouthearted" means determined, resolute, unwavering in one's course of action. It emphasizes a strong will or commitment. “…that [are] far from righteousness…” : This is the core of the message. “Righteousness” means doing what’s morally correct, following God’s law, and living according to His will. “Far from” means completely separated from that good path. So, putting it all together: The verse warns those who are determined to remain on a course of wrongdoing or unrighteous behavior – those who aren't striving for goodness and morality – that they need to stop doing so. It’s a call to repentance and a reminder of the importance of aligning with God’s will. What does this have to do with us today? This verse can be interpreted in several ways, but it often speaks to: Our own choices: We all make choices that lead us down paths of wrong or imperfection. The need for change: It encourages us to actively work towards a more righteous life – to turn away from things that are harmful and embrace goodness. A call to humility: It’s a reminder that we are fallible, and we often stumble. In short, it's a warning against drifting away from God's guidance and urging us to strive for moral living. --- To help me explain it even better and tailor it further, could you tell me: What’s your current understanding of this verse? Are there any specific aspects you’re curious about (e.g., the historical context, its symbolic meaning)?