Definition: Then said I, Woe [is] me! for I am undone; because I [am] a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 6:5. It's a really important and poetic statement about God’s relationship with humanity. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: The prophet Isaiah is feeling incredibly humbled and ashamed because he’s living amongst people who are considered “unclean” – meaning they don’t practice the Jewish laws perfectly, or perhaps aren't fully devoted to God. He’s realizing he’s not truly worthy of seeing and worshipping God. Let’s unpack it word by word: “Then said I, Woe is me!” : This shows Isaiah’s deep distress and feeling of failure. It’s a cry of despair. “because I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips…” : This is the key part. “Unclean lips” refers to being imperfect in speaking or showing devotion to God. It suggests he might not fully understand or follow God's teachings perfectly. “…and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips…” : This highlights that Isaiah lives amongst people who aren’t adhering to Jewish law and traditions as completely as he is. He’s surrounded by a community that isn’t perfectly dedicated. “for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.” : This is the most dramatic part. “The King” refers to God himself. “LORD of hosts” means God is supreme and powerful – the ultimate ruler. Isaiah says he has seen God, and that seeing makes him realize how far from perfect he is. Overall Meaning: Isaiah 6:5 is a powerful expression of humility and recognizing one’s own imperfection before God. It’s a moment where he acknowledges his distance from God's glory and the perfect covenant between them. It’s not about blaming anyone; it’s about acknowledging his own fallibility and being humbled by God's greatness. Why is this verse important? Foundation for Jesus: This passage lays the groundwork for Jesus’ teachings, which emphasize that even though we are flawed, we can still have a relationship with God through faith and repentance. Understanding of Covenant: It speaks to the idea of a covenant – a special agreement between God and humanity – and how our imperfections can impact that agreement. In short, it’s a moment of profound humility and recognition of our fallibility before the ultimate King of all. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss its connection to other parts of the Bible? Give you some examples of how this verse relates to everyday life?