Definition: Mine heart within me is broken because of the prophets; all my bones shake; I am like a drunken man, and like a man whom wine hath overcome, because of the LORD, and because of the words of his holiness.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly powerful verse from Jeremiah 23:9. It's a deeply emotional and complex passage, so we’ll go through it step-by-step. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: “Mine heart within me is broken because of the prophets…” – This is the core of the problem. Jeremiah is feeling incredibly distressed and upset by the actions of the prophets. He sees them as causing him pain and distress. Think of it like this: he’s feeling a deep, internal conflict with their messages. “All my bones shake…” – This is a metaphor for his emotional state being completely out of control. It means he's struggling to maintain composure and stability. He feels like he's on the verge of collapse. “Like a drunken man, and like a man whom wine hath overcome…” - This is a vivid comparison. He’s experiencing a state of disorientation and impulsiveness – mirroring the chaos and lack of control often associated with drunkenness. It suggests he’s making impulsive decisions or acting without thought. “Because of the LORD…” – This is crucial. It means his feelings are being affected by God's judgment, His laws, and His holiness (a fancy word for His perfection and righteousness). “And because of the words of his holiness.” - This is where it gets really profound. Jeremiah’s emotions aren’t just about the prophets themselves; they're because of how God speaks – particularly through His holy, righteous words. God’s holiness (His perfect nature) is overwhelming and painful to him. Overall Interpretation: Jeremiah is saying that the constant pressure and messages from the prophets are causing him immense emotional turmoil and a sense of being overwhelmed by his own feelings. He feels like he's losing control, mirroring a state of weakness and vulnerability – almost like a man who has been overcome with wine. He’s recognizing that his internal struggle stems directly from God's holiness and His words. It’s a powerful message about: The Conflict Between Divine Law and Human Emotion: Jeremiah is highlighting the tension between what God demands (His law) and how we often feel – sometimes driven by our own emotions and desires. The Importance of Spiritual Guidance: He's emphasizing that true understanding comes from receiving guidance, wisdom, and a clear understanding of God’s will. Does this resonate with you? Would you like me to explain any specific part of this verse in more detail or perhaps explore its context within the larger biblical narrative?