Definition: And the LORD will create upon every dwelling place of mount Zion, and upon her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day, and the shining of a flaming fire by night: for upon all the glory [shall be] a defence.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from Isaiah 4:5. It's quite poetic, but it speaks about God’s protection and blessing. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse describes God’s plan to protect His people – specifically, Zion (which is often translated as Jerusalem) – through a combination of divine intervention and protective signs. Let's unpack the parts: “And the LORD will create upon every dwelling place of mount Zion, and upon her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day…” This means God is actively creating a protective shield around Zion. He’s making a “cloud” (representing divine protection) and “smoke” (like a warm, bright glow) to cover the area. “…and the shining of a flaming fire by night.” This is where it gets really powerful. God isn't just creating a shield; he’s actively making a dazzling, bright light – a "flaming fire" – to show His presence and power. It suggests a constant, visible reminder of God’s blessing. “For upon all the glory [shall be] a defence.” This is the key part! “Glory” means honor, magnificence, or something that inspires awe. So, this verse says that God's protection isn’t just about shielding Zion – it’s preserving and defending its glory, its beauty, and its importance as a place of worship and connection with the divine. It’s like a watchful guardian ensuring everything is safe and blessed. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: Isaiah 4:5 is a powerful vision of God's unwavering care for His people. It suggests that God's protection isn't just about physical defense; it’s about safeguarding Zion's identity, its spiritual significance, and ultimately, its glory as a place of worship and connection with Him. It speaks to the idea that God is actively involved in protecting His chosen people. In simpler terms: “God is watching over Zion and is creating a bright, protective presence to safeguard it from harm.” --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Connect this verse to other biblical stories or themes? Discuss the symbolic meaning behind the "cloud" and "flaming fire"?