Definition: For I will cause Elam to be dismayed before their enemies, and before them that seek their life: and I will bring evil upon them, [even] my fierce anger, saith the LORD; and I will send the sword after them, till I have consumed them:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 49:37. It’s a really powerful and dramatic passage about God’s wrath and his plan to punish those who seek to harm Israel. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse describes God deliberately setting events in motion that will cause great suffering for the people of Elam (a region near modern-day Iran) and anyone seeking to help them. It’s essentially a warning and a plan of action. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “For I will cause Elam to be dismayed…” : Elam is a specific group of people – a region in Southwest Asia. “Dismayed” means upset, worried, and perhaps even angry. This suggests they are facing a serious challenge or threat. “…before their enemies…” : God intends to create a situation where Elam becomes vulnerable to attack by other nations. Think of it as a battlefield being set up for conflict. “…and before them that seek their life:” : This is the key part. God's anger isn’t just about a simple battle; it’s about someone actively seeking to harm Elam and its people. It suggests a deliberate effort to make life difficult for them. “And I will bring evil upon them…” : This is where the word “evil” comes in – it's not just any kind of harm, but a deep, destructive force. “[even] my fierce anger, saith the LORD; and I will send the sword after them, till I have consumed them:” This is the most alarming part. God declares that he (the Lord) will unleash his fury – he will send a powerful weapon (a sword) to attack Elam. He intends to relentlessly pursue them until they are utterly defeated and destroyed. It's a statement of absolute intent. In simpler terms: God is going to deliberately create a situation where Elam is in danger, and those who actively seek to harm them will be targeted by his wrath. He’s prepared to use violence and destruction to punish them. Important Context (It's about the larger story): This passage is part of a larger prophecy in the Old Testament that describes God’s plan to ultimately destroy Israel and its enemies. The verses before and after this one build up to this dramatic climax. It’s a warning about the dangers of seeking to harm God's people, and it speaks to God's ultimate justice and protection. Do you want me to: Explain any specific part in more detail? Discuss the potential meaning or symbolism behind this verse (e.g., its connection to other prophecies)? Give a brief summary of the overall story of Jeremiah 49:37 within the larger context of scripture?