Definition: Therefore thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will lay stumblingblocks before this people, and the fathers and the sons together shall fall upon them; the neighbour and his friend shall perish.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Jeremiah 6:21. It’s a really powerful warning about the potential for division and conflict in God's people. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: God is saying that if people become too divided, too independent of each other, and too focused on their own interests instead of serving Him and each other, things will fall apart. It’s a prophecy about a time when the people of Israel (and later, all of humanity) are going to experience significant problems. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Therefore thus saith the LORD…” : This is God speaking directly to us. It’s a serious message from him. “…Behold, I will lay stumblingblocks before this people…” : This is a metaphor – imagine putting obstacles in the way of someone walking. God is saying that He will set up challenges and difficulties for his people. These obstacles aren't necessarily physical things; they represent problems within their community or society. “…and the fathers and the sons together shall fall upon them…” : This highlights a crucial point. It means that families, communities, and even nations – all the bonds of kinship – will be damaged by this division. Think of it like a chain breaking. “The neighbour and his friend shall perish.” : This is the most alarming part. It's saying that individual relationships – friendships, neighborly connections, and even familial ties – will suffer greatly. It’s about loss of trust, betrayal, and ultimately, ruin. What does this mean in a broader sense? This verse speaks to a warning about the dangers of: Selfishness: Focusing on personal gain or desires without considering the impact on others. Lack of Unity: When people don’t work together for the common good, and instead prioritize their own interests. Distrust & Betrayal: When people lose faith in each other and become unwilling to help one another. Important Note: Jeremiah is warning about a specific time – a period of intense conflict and division that will be coming. It’s not just about occasional disagreements; it's about a fundamental breakdown of trust and cooperation. In short, the verse warns us to maintain strong relationships with one another and work together for the good of all. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you a historical context (what was happening in Israel at the time)? Discuss its significance in the Bible as a whole?