Definition: But I will put it into the hand of them that afflict thee; which have said to thy soul, Bow down, that we may go over: and thou hast laid thy body as the ground, and as the street, to them that went over.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 51:23. It’s a really beautiful and symbolic message about forgiveness and hope. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse speaks about someone being burdened or suffering . The speaker is saying, “You have said to me, ‘Bow down and we will go over,’ and I’ve responded by laying myself down as if I were the ground and the street. It's a way of showing you that I acknowledge your suffering.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: "But I will put it into the hand of them who afflict thee..." : This is the key part. “Afflict” means to burden, trouble, or to test someone. This person is being afflicted . It suggests they are facing hardship, difficulty, or pain. "...which have said to thy soul, Bow down, that we may go over..." : They’ve spoken words of encouragement and a desire for you to bend down to them. This is like offering advice or a way out. "And thou hast laid thy body as the ground, and as the street..." : This is where it gets really powerful. The speaker completely collapses – they're laying themselves down on the ground like a street. It’s a complete surrender to their suffering. They've become completely vulnerable and passive. "...to them that went over." : This final part implies that they are being taken care of, or supported, by someone else. It suggests a future comfort or restoration. The Overall Meaning – A Message of Hope: The verse isn’t about me being the cause of your suffering. It's about acknowledging your pain and offering solace. The speaker is saying: “I see you, I acknowledge your struggle, and I will offer support in a way that makes it easier for you to move forward.” It’s a message of: Compassion: Recognizing someone’s suffering. Offering Support: Providing comfort and strength. Acceptance: Letting go of the need to fight against your own problems. Important Note: This is a highly symbolic verse, and its exact meaning can be interpreted in different ways depending on the context of the entire Bible. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with some examples? Discuss the possible interpretations of the verse?