Definition: Then I said, I will not make mention of him, nor speak any more in his name. But [his word] was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not [stay].

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 20:9. It's a really powerful and complex passage, so we’ll go through it step-by-step: Overall Meaning: This verse describes a profound struggle of someone who feels deeply troubled by something – likely a terrible or awful event – and is desperately trying to avoid speaking about it. It speaks to intense grief, frustration, and a sense of being overwhelmed. Let's unpack the parts: “Then I said, I will not make mention of him…” - This is the core of the verse. The person is saying they will not talk about this person (or event) – essentially, they’re choosing to avoid speaking about it altogether. It suggests a deep aversion and perhaps even a sense of guilt or shame. “…nor speak any more in his name.” - This reinforces the refusal to associate with or speak about this person. It's a deliberate distancing. “But [his word] was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones…” – This is the most important part. The verse describes the emotion behind the refusal. It’s not just sadness; it’s something much stronger: a burning fire . “Burning fire” : This metaphor suggests intense passion, anger, and a consuming feeling of distress. It's not just sadness; it's something that feels like it’s trying to burst out. "Shut up in my bones" : This imagery highlights the deep, internal nature of this emotion – it’s not just a feeling, but a powerful force within the person. “and I was weary with forbearing…” - The person is weary – exhausted and burdened by their struggle. "Forbearing" means to be patient or resigned; they are trying to resist something intensely. “and I could not [stay].” - This is the crucial part. The person is physically and emotionally unable to stop struggling with this thought or feeling. They’re trapped in a cycle of worry, guilt, and frustration. What does it all mean? This verse speaks to a difficult situation – likely involving a terrible injustice, betrayal, or devastating loss. The person feels overwhelmed by the pain and is desperately trying to protect themselves from further suffering. It's a testament to immense emotional distress and a struggle against an overwhelming force. Important Note: The exact context of this verse is debated among scholars. Some see it as a moment of intense prayer or repentance, while others interpret it as a reflection of the prophet Jeremiah’s own profound feelings of despair. --- Would you like me to: Explain any of these concepts in more detail? Connect this passage to other Bible stories or themes? Offer a different interpretation of the verse?