Definition: And it shall come to pass in that day, [that] every place shall be, where there were a thousand vines at a thousand silverlings, it shall [even] be for briers and thorns.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 7:23. It’s a really interesting and symbolic passage about the future of Israel. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that a time will come when a lot of land (or areas) will be barren and filled with thorny bushes and briars. It’s not just about physical land; it’s about the spirit of the land being disrupted. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Isaiah 7:23” : This is a specific prophecy in Isaiah, a book of Hebrew prophecies written long ago. It’s a message from God to King Hezekiah of Judah. “[That] every place shall be…[that]” : This is the key part. It's saying that any area where there were a thousand vines (representing growth, abundance, and life) will become barren and filled with thorns – a harsh environment. It’s not just one specific spot; it’s a widespread problem. “it shall even” : This is a crucial word. It emphasizes that this barrenness won't be a temporary thing. It’s a permanent, lasting state. “[that] every place…[even]” : Again, it highlights the widespread nature of the problem – not just one small area, but everywhere . What does this mean in terms of history and prophecy? The Babylonian Exile: The most common interpretation connects this verse to the time when the Babylonians invaded and conquered Judah. They destroyed many of the vineyards (vines) that were planted by the Israelites. This destruction is seen as a symbolic representation of the loss of prosperity and life for Israel. A Time of Hardship: The verse speaks of a period of great hardship, drought, and darkness – essentially a time of decline. Important Note: It’s important to remember that this is a prophecy . It's a prediction about the future, not a guarantee. But it’s a powerful message of warning and hope. In short, Isaiah 7:23 warns us that if we don’t take care of our land and our people, there will be a time when it becomes incredibly difficult to thrive. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of the verse in more detail? Connect this verse to other Bible stories or themes? Discuss what the imagery behind the verse might mean (like the thorny bushes)?