Definition: And I will give thee into the hand of them that seek thy life, and into the hand [of them] whose face thou fearest, even into the hand of Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon, and into the hand of the Chaldeans.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 22:25. It's a really powerful and unsettling passage about the future. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes a terrifying scenario where God is actively choosing to harm someone who is causing him grief and suffering. Let’s unpack each part: “And I will give thee into the hand of them that seek thy life…” – This means God is deliberately allowing someone to be harmed or taken away from them. It's not just a random accident; it’s a conscious choice by God. Think of it like being intentionally set up to fail. “…and into the hand [of them] whose face thou fearest…” – This is the crucial part. “Thou” means “you.” The verse specifically says that God will give this person into the hands of someone who scares him. The "face you fear" refers to a specific individual - Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon. “…even into the hand of Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon…” – This is a very specific and significant detail. Nebuchadnezzar was a powerful ruler in ancient Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq). He's being singled out as the person God will actively target. “…and into the hand of the Chaldeans.” – Finally, the verse goes on to name another group: the Chaldeans were a Persian people who lived in Babylon and were known for their wealth and power. This adds another layer of dread. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: This passage is a warning about God’s judgment against those who are causing him pain and suffering. It speaks to a deeper, potentially catastrophic future where God will actively punish someone who is actively harming him or his people. It suggests a pattern of behavior – a relentless pursuit of something that causes God distress. Important Note: The context of this verse is often debated among theologians. Some see it as a prophecy of a specific event, while others interpret it as a broader warning about the dangers of idolatry and rebellion against God’s will. It's a very challenging and dramatic passage that highlights God’s sovereignty and his desire for justice. Resources if you want to learn more: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/verses/Jeremiah/22:25](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/verses/Jeremiah/22:25) Different Perspectives on the Verse: Search for articles and explanations from different Christian denominations about this passage - it's a complex one! --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Discuss the symbolism behind this imagery? Connect this verse to other biblical stories or themes?