Definition: [As] the partridge sitteth [on eggs], and hatcheth [them] not; [so] he that getteth riches, and not by right, shall leave them in the midst of his days, and at his end shall be a fool.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Jeremiah 17:11. It’s a really powerful and somewhat unsettling warning about the pursuit of wealth. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse warns against focusing solely on material riches – accumulating wealth – without considering God’s will and principles. It suggests that if you chase wealth without a good heart, it will ultimately lead to ruin. Let's unpack the metaphor: “Jeremiah 17:11 [As] the partridge sitteth [on eggs], and hatcheth [them] not; [so] he that getteth riches, and not by right…” This is a vivid image. Think of a partridge – it's small, delicate, and easily disturbed. It’s sitting on the eggs. The word "hatcheth" means to “secure” or “place.” So, the partridge is calmly and securely holding the eggs. “…so he that getteth riches, and not by right…” This is the key. The partridge isn’t doing anything wrong – it's just sitting there. But because it’s sitting there, it’s vulnerable to being disturbed. It's relying on luck or circumstance to get its wealth. "...shall leave them in the midst of his days, and at his end shall be a fool." This is where the warning really comes out. If you become too focused on accumulating riches and don't follow God’s guidance – that means obeying His laws and principles – your wealth will eventually crumble. It will be lost to you in the midst of your life, and at the end of your time on Earth, you’ll be considered a fool because you didn’t live according to God's plan. In essence, the verse is saying: True riches come from living a righteous life – obeying God’s laws, loving others, and serving Him. Material wealth isn't inherently good; it can be tempting, but if it comes at the expense of your relationship with God, it will ultimately lead to unhappiness and destruction. Think of it this way: It's like building a house on sand – it might look impressive for a while, but eventually, it will collapse. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific biblical story or concept? Give you some practical advice about prioritizing your values over material possessions?