Definition: A people that provoketh me to anger continually to my face; that sacrificeth in gardens, and burneth incense upon altars of brick;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this biblical passage together. It’s a pretty poetic and symbolic verse from the Book of Isaiah, and it's often interpreted as a message about God’s intention for humanity. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse describes God’s perspective on humanity – specifically, on us – and his desire to punish us if we continue to sin against him. It’s saying that God is actively displeased with our behavior. Let's unpack it word-by-word: “Isaiah 65:3” : This refers to a specific prophecy written by Isaiah, a prophet who lived around the time of King Hezekiah in ancient Israel. “A people that provoketh me to anger continually…” : This is the core of the verse. “Provoke me to anger” means God is feeling frustrated and angry because of our actions. It’s not just a fleeting annoyance; it's a persistent, ongoing irritation. Think of it like when you accidentally break something – it irritates you! “…to my face” : This isn’t about seeing him, but about being noticed by him. It suggests God is watching us intently and recognizing our wrongdoing. “That sacrificeth in gardens…” : This is a metaphor. “Gardens” represent the world – the Earth – and the act of "sacrificing" means to give something precious away. It’s like offering something valuable, but instead of a physical gift, we offer our own lives or our conscience. “And burneth incense upon altars of brick…” : This is a vivid image of burning incense. Incense is used in religious ceremonies to honor God and express devotion. Burning it on "altars of brick" suggests that our sins are being exposed and not hidden away. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: The whole verse paints a picture of God's judgment. It’s not about literal punishment, but rather a consequence for our defiance and disregard for his will. He wants to show us the consequences of our choices. It’s essentially saying: "You are creating problems for yourself." Why is it significant? This passage is often seen as a preview of Christ's coming. It speaks to God's ultimate desire for reconciliation with humanity, and that reconciliation will be achieved through Jesus Christ. It also highlights the importance of turning away from sin and seeking a relationship with God. Important Note: The interpretation of this verse has varied throughout history. It’s a powerful and complex message that continues to resonate with believers today. --- To help me explain it even better for you , could you tell me: What are you hoping to understand from this verse? (e.g., Are you interested in its symbolism, or its theological implications?)