Definition: Thus saith the LORD, Write ye this man childless, a man [that] shall not prosper in his days: for no man of his seed shall prosper, sitting upon the throne of David, and ruling any more in Judah.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Jeremiah 22:30. It’s a really important and somewhat unsettling passage about God's plan for a king. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: God is saying that this specific man will never be able to succeed or rule well in the kingdom of Judah (which includes modern-day Israel). He’s essentially telling him to have no children and not hold any position of power or influence. Let's unpack it word by word: “Thus saith the LORD…” – This is a direct quote from the prophet Jeremiah, giving us a sense of urgency and divine authority. “…Write ye this man childless…” – This is the core of the verse. God is commanding someone to not have children . It’s a very specific instruction. “…a man that shall not prosper in his days…” – This means he will face difficulties and setbacks throughout his life. He won't be able to achieve success or happiness. “…for no man of his seed shall prosper, sitting upon the throne of David, and ruling any more in Judah.” – This is the key part that adds a lot of weight. It’s saying that this particular man will never be able to inherit the position of king David held. He won't have any descendants (children) who would succeed him. He will not be able to rule, even as a high official in Judah. What does this mean in a broader sense? This verse speaks to several potential issues: Political Instability: It suggests a worrying trend of corruption and power struggles within the kingdom of Judah. God's Judgment: It highlights God’s judgment on those who are prone to wickedness and fail to uphold his laws. It’s a reminder that God holds people accountable for their actions. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a warning against political corruption and emphasizes the importance of God’s sovereignty over human affairs. It's a challenging but significant part of biblical prophecy. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss its historical context (when was it written, who was Jeremiah)? Compare it to other verses in the Bible that deal with kingship or leadership?