Definition: And say unto them, Hear ye the word of the LORD, ye kings of Judah, and all Judah, and all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, that enter in by these gates:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 17:20. It's a really powerful and somewhat unsettling passage, and it sets up a significant conflict. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Message: This verse is essentially telling the people of Judah (which includes Jerusalem and surrounding areas) to listen to God and to follow his instructions . It's a warning about their leadership and behavior. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And say unto them…” : This is a formal command, like a rule or law. “…Hear ye the word of the LORD…” : This means to listen carefully to what God has to say. It's not just any random advice; it’s God’s message. “…ye kings of Judah, and all Judah, and all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, that enter in by these gates:” This is the crucial part. It’s addressing a specific group – the rulers and people living within the boundaries of the Kingdom of Judah (which included Jerusalem). It's saying: "Listen to us! Pay attention to what we say." What does it mean practically? Jeremiah is warning these leaders that they are in danger. He’s suggesting that their actions – perhaps their corruption, disobedience, or prioritizing their own interests over God’s will – are leading them towards destruction. The "gates" symbolize the borders of the kingdom, and entering them by force or with disregard for God's law would be a dangerous thing. Important Context: This verse is part of a larger story about judgment and the future of Judah. Jeremiah was prophesying about a time when God would punish those who had broken his covenant with them. This verse is essentially saying, “We’re giving you a warning – you need to change your ways before it's too late.” In short: Jeremiah is urging the leaders of Judah to listen to God and to act in accordance with His laws and will, because their actions are threatening the entire kingdom. --- Do you want me to explain any aspect of this verse in more detail? For example, I could go into: The historical context of the time What "Judah" represented (a specific period or people) The meaning of the word "gates"