Definition: Therefore thus saith the LORD; Ask ye now among the heathen, who hath heard such things: the virgin of Israel hath done a very horrible thing.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 18:13. It's a really powerful and somewhat unsettling message about God’s judgment. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: God is Watching: The verse starts with God looking over the entire world, constantly observing everything that happens. A Problem Arises: There's a situation where a woman named “the virgin of Israel” (meaning a special, important woman) engages in a very serious and wicked act – she has an affair with a man who is a godless, ungodly, and powerful king. This is a big deal because it challenges God’s authority and the established order of things. God’s Response: God decides that this situation must be dealt with. He sends a messenger (Jeremiah) to warn the people – specifically, to alert the people of Israel about what has happened. What Does It Mean in Simple Terms? It's basically saying: “This is a serious transgression against God’s rules and principles.” Here's a breakdown of the key ideas: "Thus saith the LORD": This means God is speaking directly to us, giving us a direct warning. It's not just a general statement; it’s a specific message from God. “Ask ye now among the heathen…”: God isn’t dwelling on this situation for just Israel. He wants everyone – even people in other countries – to know about it. It’s a call for widespread awareness. "...who hath heard such things?": This is the crucial part. God is pointing out that someone else has already heard of this awful act. It emphasizes that this isn't just a secret or something only God knows. The Tone and Meaning: The verse carries a strong sense of judgment, consequence, and divine wrath. It’s not just about a single bad thing; it’s about a deliberate defiance of God's authority and the established order. It implies that this act will have serious repercussions for those involved. Why is it important? This verse is often interpreted as a warning to people to: Be careful what you do: It reminds us that our actions have consequences, and we should always be mindful of God’s law. Stay vigilant: God's watching eye is constant; we must be aware of potential wrongdoing. In short, Jeremiah 18:13 is a stark reminder that disobedience to God can have devastating results, and it calls for everyone to be warned. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse in more detail? Relate it to a specific biblical story or concept?