Definition: And if thou say in thine heart, Wherefore come these things upon me? For the greatness of thine iniquity are thy skirts discovered, [and] thy heels made bare.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 13:22. It's a really powerful and somewhat shocking passage about God’s judgment. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes God seeing that the person speaking is deeply flawed and has done terrible things. He’s pointing out their iniquity – which basically means “their wickedness” or “their moral failings.” It's not just a little mistake; it’s a significant pattern of behavior that shows they are truly bad. Let's unpack the parts: “And if thou say in thine heart, Wherefore come these things upon me?” - This is asking: "Are you really aware of what you’ve done?" It’s a questioning, almost accusatory tone. It suggests they’re not fully confronting their own actions. “[and] thy heels made bare.” – This is the shocking part. It means that the person has revealed themselves to be completely exposed and vulnerable. Their shoes (symbolizing their public image or outward appearance) are now visible. So, what does this mean practically? This verse paints a picture of someone who is: Secretly Guilty: They’re not confessing their sins; they're hiding them. Visible to God: Their actions and behavior are open to his scrutiny. Confronted with Consequences: It’s a warning that God will hold them accountable for their actions. Important Context (Briefly): Jeremiah was writing during a time of intense rebellion and idolatry in Judah. This verse is often interpreted as a foreshadowing of the judgment that would befall Israel, and ultimately, all humanity, due to their sins. It's a stark reminder of God’s justice and his desire for repentance. In short, this verse describes a person who has been exposed to God’s judgment because they’ve acted in ways that are deeply wrong. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Give you some examples of what this verse might be interpreted as in a specific historical context? Or, would you like me to explain its symbolism further?