Definition: My tabernacle is spoiled, and all my cords are broken: my children are gone forth of me, and they [are] not: [there is] none to stretch forth my tent any more, and to set up my curtains.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 10:20. It’s a really powerful and somewhat sad passage about God's relationship with humanity. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Overall Meaning: This verse describes a deep sense of loneliness and abandonment by God. It says that God has lost his way, his connection to people, and he no longer feels like he can provide for them. It paints a picture of a broken relationship. Let’s unpack it word-by-word: “Jeremiah 10:20 My tabernacle is spoiled…” – “Tabernacle” refers to the physical tent or dwelling place that God used to dwell with his people in ancient Israel. It was a symbol of his presence and connection to them. "Spoiled" means damaged, broken, or failing. “…and all my cords are broken:” - “Cords” here represent God’s connection to humanity – his love, his promises, his guidance, and his ability to provide for them. “Broken” signifies that these connections have been severed or weakened. “…my children are gone forth of me…” - This is a crucial part. "Children" refers to God's people – the Israelites. “Gone forth” means they’ve left, moved away, and no longer come to him. They’re dispersed. “…they [are] not: [there is] none to stretch forth my tent any more…” - “Tent” represents God’s plan for his people – his covenant (a promise) with them. “There is none” means there’s no further provision, no future for them. It's like the tent has been abandoned. “…and to set up my curtains.” - “Curtains” symbolize God’s presence, his guidance, and his protection. They were used to cover and protect the people – a sign of his care and blessing. “Set up” means he’s stopped using them, leaving them vulnerable. In simpler terms: God feels incredibly lonely and abandoned. He's lost his way, his connection with humanity has been broken, and his ability to provide for them is gone. He doesn’t feel like he can continue to offer comfort, protection, or guidance. He's essentially saying, “I don’t want to be near you anymore.” What does it mean in a bigger picture? This verse often speaks to the idea of God’s disappointment with humanity. It reflects a feeling of isolation and a longing for reconciliation. It can also be interpreted as a call to repentance – a recognition that we need to seek God's presence and guidance more closely, and rebuild our relationship with him. Important Note: This is a difficult verse to interpret, and there are different theological perspectives on its meaning. However, it’s generally understood as reflecting a period of emotional distance and a desire for renewal within the relationship between God and his people. --- Would you like me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss its connection to other parts of the Bible? Explore potential interpretations of the verse from different theological viewpoints?