Definition: And in the fourth month, in the ninth [day] of the month, the famine was sore in the city, so that there was no bread for the people of the land.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse together. It’s a really important one about God’s judgment and a call to repentance. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse describes a devastating period of hardship in Jerusalem. “And in the fourth month, in the ninth [day] of the month…” – This tells us when it happened. It’s referring to a specific time, likely around the time of the fall of Babylon (a significant historical event). It's important to note “the ninth day” – this is a specific date within that month. “…the famine was sore in the city…” - This means there was a serious lack of food and supplies in Jerusalem. It wasn’t just a little bit empty; people were starving. “So that there was no bread for the people of the land.” – This is the core message. God is showing his concern for His people, and he's taking action to protect them from starvation. He's deliberately causing this hardship so that it’s a warning to the Israelites (and everyone else) to change their ways and repent of their sins. What does it mean in terms of God’s perspective? The Bible often portrays God as being just and righteous. This verse shows him being very concerned about his people, especially when they are suffering. It's a direct consequence of sin and disobedience – the Israelites had been wandering away from him and their own ways. God is using this hardship as a way to bring them back to Him and to remind them of the importance of following His laws and living righteously. It’s often seen as a call to action. It's not just about sadness; it’s a message of urgent need and a plea for change. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Talk about the historical context of this passage? Discuss what it might mean in terms of the Israelites' relationship with God?