Definition: Give wings unto Moab, that it may flee and get away: for the cities thereof shall be desolate, without any to dwell therein.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 48:9. It’s a pretty powerful message about judgment and hope. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God is going to punish the people of Moab – a specific group of people living in southwestern Israel – with devastating consequences. He’s giving them a chance to escape, and if they fail, the resulting devastation will be so great it will make those lands completely empty and desolate. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Jeremiah 48:9” : This is the verse itself. It's from a book of the Old Testament. “Give wings unto Moab…” : Jeremiah is telling us that God will actively help Moab to escape. He’s giving them the ability to flee, to move away, and to find new homes. “Wings” here symbolizes freedom – a way to leave behind their current situation. “…that it may flee and get away…” : This is the key part. It's not just about them trying to escape; God is actively enabling them to do so. “For the cities thereof shall be desolate, without any to dwell therein.” : This is the consequence of their fleeing. The cities of Moab will be left empty and abandoned. They won’t have anyone to live in them – no homes, no families, no businesses, nothing. It's a complete loss. What does this verse mean about God? Justice: It speaks to God’s righteous judgment on those who defy him and choose to be wicked. Hope: It also carries a message of hope. Even though the cities are desolate, it’s a necessary outcome for God's purposes. It shows that even in devastation, there is a chance for renewal and a new beginning. In short, this verse describes God’s plan to punish the people of Moab by allowing them to flee and ultimately leaving them with nothing. --- Would you like me to: Explain another verse from Jeremiah? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Talk about its symbolism (e.g., the imagery of wings)?