Definition: Kerioth is taken, and the strong holds are surprised, and the mighty men’s hearts in Moab at that day shall be as the heart of a woman in her pangs.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 48:41. It’s a really powerful and somewhat poetic image. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a moment of intense, overwhelming sadness and despair in Moab – a region known for its strong people and impressive leadership – after a significant disaster. Let’s unpack the parts: “Jeremiah 48:41” : This is the name of the passage itself, found in the Old Testament Book of Jeremiah. “Kerioth is taken” : This refers to a specific event – likely a betrayal or a significant loss of power for the Moabite rulers. It’s like a major blow to their authority and security. “…and the strong holds are surprised” : “Strong holds” means powerful, fortified places – perhaps cities, settlements, or even entire regions. The surprise comes from the fact that this disruption has disrupted their established order. “…and the mighty men’s hearts in Moab at that day shall be as the heart of a woman in her pangs.” : This is the core of the image. “Pangs” refers to intense, overwhelming pain and distress – a feeling of being utterly crushed. The "mighty men" are powerful leaders. The verse says their hearts will feel like a woman experiencing profound sorrow - that is, they’ll be overwhelmed with grief and despair. So, what's the overall message? Jeremiah is warning about the devastating consequences of betrayal and the potential for immense suffering. He’s saying that even the strongest, most powerful people can fall into deep despair when their trust is broken. The verse suggests that this sadness will be so profound it mirrors the emotional state of a woman in extreme pain – a symbol of utter hopelessness. Why is this important? This imagery is often interpreted as a warning about: The dangers of betrayal: It’s suggesting that trust can be easily broken, and that those who are trusted will suffer greatly. The importance of faith and hope: It’s also a reminder to hold onto hope – even in the darkest times – because true strength doesn't come from power alone but from unwavering faith. In short, this verse paints a picture of profound sorrow and despair as a consequence of a betrayal that threatens to overwhelm even the most powerful people. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Discuss the symbolism behind this image (e.g., comparing it to other stories)?