Definition: In their heat I will make their feasts, and I will make them drunken, that they may rejoice, and sleep a perpetual sleep, and not wake, saith the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 51:39. It's a pretty dramatic and unsettling passage about God’s plan for the defeated Israelites. Here's a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: God is going to deliberately ruin the celebrations and joy of the Israelites – specifically their feasts and drunken revelry – so that they will never wake up or experience life again. Let’s unpack it word by word: “In their heat I will make their feasts…” : "Heat" here refers to a period of intense anger, frustration, or perhaps even a violent outburst. It's about a time when the Israelites are consumed with hatred and rage. “Feasts” means celebrations, parties, and gatherings – things that would normally bring joy and community. “…and I will make them drunken…” : This is the key part. God intends to induce a state of profound intoxication in the Israelites. He wants them to be completely lost in their own despair and hopelessness. “That they may rejoice, and sleep a perpetual sleep…” : This is the ultimate goal – to achieve a state of blissful oblivion. “Joy” implies a feeling of contentment and pleasure, while “sleep a perpetual sleep” suggests a complete lack of awareness and life. “…and not wake, saith the LORD.” : This final part emphasizes God's deliberate action. He’s actively choosing to prevent the Israelites from ever experiencing happiness or freedom again. What's the Significance? This verse is considered one of the most unsettling parts of the Book of Jeremiah. It speaks to a profound and terrifying idea: God’s judgment isn't just about punishing the Israelites; it’s about destroying their joy, their hope, and ultimately, their very existence. It highlights a moment of extreme despair and suggests that God is actively manipulating events to achieve his purposes – perhaps to teach Israel a lesson about the dangers of pride and rebellion. Important Note: This passage is incredibly difficult to interpret. It’s often debated among theologians and scholars. Some see it as a warning against unchecked anger and violence, while others view it as a demonstration of God's absolute power and control. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss its possible meaning within the context of the larger story of Jeremiah 51? Compare it to other biblical passages about judgment or punishment?