Definition: Their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed innocent blood: their thoughts [are] thoughts of iniquity; wasting and destruction [are] in their paths.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 59:7. It’s a really powerful and sobering passage about the suffering of those who are oppressed or marginalized. Here's a simplified explanation: The Core Message: This verse warns us that people facing hardship, injustice, or persecution often intend to cause harm – both physically and morally. They’re actively working towards negative outcomes. Let’s unpack it word by word: “Their feet run to evil…” - This suggests a tendency toward negativity, wrongdoing, and harmful actions. It's like their energy is being directed away from good and towards something that causes pain. "...and they make haste to shed innocent blood.” – This is the most dramatic part. “Blood” represents innocent lives, suffering, and harm to others. “Make haste” implies a frantic, impulsive action – a rush to do something terrible without thinking it through. "Their thoughts [are] thoughts of iniquity…” - "Iniquity" means wickedness, immorality, or evil intentions. It’s essentially the negative part of their mind. It’s suggesting they're harboring harmful thoughts. "...wasting and destruction [are] in their paths.” – This is a consequence of their thought patterns. “Wasting” means using resources carelessly, and “destruction” refers to causing harm or ruin. "In their paths" – this suggests that these negative thoughts are actively shaping their actions and leading them toward negative outcomes. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: Isaiah 59:7 is a lament for the suffering of the oppressed. It’s saying that despite people trying to do good, they often fall into patterns of negativity and harmful behavior. It's a warning about the potential for darkness within individuals and societies. Important Note: This verse isn’t necessarily about blaming individuals directly. Instead, it speaks to a systemic problem – a tendency towards evil that can be present even when people are trying to do good. It points to a larger context of suffering and injustice. In short, the verse is saying that those who struggle with negativity and harmful thoughts are actively contributing to harm. --- Resources for Further Exploration: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/Isaiah/59/](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/Isaiah/59/) - This site offers different translations and contextual information. ChristianityFacts.org: [https://www.christianityfacts.org/isaias-59-7/](https://www.christianityfacts.org/isaias-59-7/) – Provides a good overview of the verse's meaning and historical context. Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific story or example?