Definition: Behold, they shall be as stubble; the fire shall burn them; they shall not deliver themselves from the power of the flame: [there shall] not [be] a coal to warm at, [nor] fire to sit before it.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 47:14. It’s a really powerful and somewhat poetic image that speaks about God's judgment on sin. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse describes a situation where something is completely ruined and destroyed – essentially, it’s being burned to ash. It’s not just a temporary setback; it’s a complete and irreversible fate. Let's unpack the parts: “Behold, they shall be as stubble…” - Think of stubble as dry, scattered chaff. It’s easily blown away and doesn't hold its shape. This represents something that is lost, weak, and easily extinguished. “…the fire shall burn them…” – Fire is a powerful symbol of destruction and punishment. It’s meant to be intense and destructive. “They shall not deliver themselves from the power of the flame:” - This means it's not just being burned, but that the burning process itself will continue relentlessly. The fire won’t let go. “[there shall] not be” a coal to warm at…nor [be] fire to sit before it.” – This is the most dramatic part. It means there will be no respite, no chance of recovery. A coal is a small, slow-burning piece of wood that can provide warmth. “Fire to sit before it” symbolizes a place where something could potentially remain untouched, but the fire’s relentless nature will always consume it. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: Isaiah 47:14 portrays God as the ultimate judge and deliverer. It signifies that those who have sinned or disobeyed God are completely destroyed – their lives, their reputations, their hopes, everything is lost. It's a message of judgment and restoration, but also of God’s unwavering power to bring about justice. Why it’s significant: This verse is often interpreted as a promise of God's ultimate triumph over evil and a reminder that He will ultimately restore what has been lost. It’s a strong statement about the consequences of sin. --- To help me explain this further, would you like me to: Explain it in more detail? Connect it to a specific story or example?