Definition: Woe unto them that draw iniquity with cords of vanity, and sin as it were with a cart rope:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 5:18. It's a pretty powerful warning! Here’s the explanation in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse is telling us to be careful about things that are negative and lead to trouble – things like dishonesty, bad habits, or being tricked. It’s saying we shouldn’t rely on false promises or tricks to get by life. Let's unpack it piece by piece: "Woe unto them..." : This is a gentle but serious word for “sadness” or “suffering.” It means something bad is happening to someone. "...that draw iniquity..." : “Iniquity” is a tricky word. It’s a combination of "inward" and "iquity," which means "evil deeds" or "negative actions." So, it refers to bad things you do – things that are harmful to yourself and others. Think of it like dragging a heavy weight on your back. "...with cords of vanity..." : “Vanity” means excessive pride, self-importance, or being obsessed with appearances. It’s about wanting to be admired and valued for only what you look like or how you're perceived. "...and sin as it were with a cart rope:" This is the most colorful part! It compares sin to a cart rope. A cart rope is strong and used to pull things – it’s a way of controlling something, of dragging it along. “As it were” means in a very forceful or extreme way. So, this suggests that these negative actions are very difficult to stop and can cause significant problems. Putting it all together: The verse is saying that people who rely on lies, deceit, or shallow self-importance – things that lead to bad behavior – will suffer greatly. It's like being tied up with a rope of false promises that keeps you from taking the right path. It’s a warning against being easily led astray by those who try to manipulate you through dishonesty and vanity. In short, it’s a call to be mindful of your choices and avoid things that could lead to trouble and unhappiness. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give some examples of what "vanity" or "iniquity" might look like? Talk about how this verse relates to other parts of the Bible?