Definition: They shall lay hold on bow and spear; they [are] cruel, and have no mercy; their voice roareth like the sea; and they ride upon horses, set in array as men for war against thee, O daughter of Zion.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 6:23. It’s a really powerful and dramatic passage that speaks to a very serious situation with God’s judgment. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Message: This verse describes a group of people – likely the Israelites – who are actively plotting against Jerusalem and its inhabitants, acting with cruelty and hostility. They’re preparing for war, and their actions seem incredibly aggressive and vengeful. Let's unpack it word by word: “They shall lay hold on bow and spear” : This suggests they are actively arming themselves for a fight. "Bow" refers to arrows, and "spear" to swords or weapons of war. They’re preparing to attack. “They [are] cruel, and have no mercy” : This is the key part – they aren't just angry; they are actively harming and inflicting pain on others. It emphasizes a lack of compassion. “Their voice roareth like the sea” : The word "roareth" means to shout or wail loudly. This imagery suggests their voices are filled with anger, rage, and a terrifying intensity. It's not a quiet, reasoned argument; it’s a loud, overwhelming expression of hostility. “And they ride upon horses, set in array as men for war against thee” : This is the most shocking part. They’re mounting their horses and forming a large, organized army – ready to attack Jerusalem. The phrase “set in array” means prepared for battle. It's like they've deliberately positioned themselves for conflict. Overall Interpretation: Jeremiah 6:23 describes a group of people who are actively plotting war against God’s people. They are violent, vengeful, and determined to attack Jerusalem. The imagery is meant to be terrifying – it suggests a significant threat looming on the horizon. It's a warning about the potential for conflict and a call to repentance. Context & Significance: This verse appears in the Book of Jeremiah, which was a prophetic book written by God to Jeremiah, a prophet during the time of King Josiah. It’s often interpreted as a prophecy of impending war and judgment against Judah (the Israelites). It's a strong warning about the dangers of apostasy and the importance of seeking God’s guidance and obedience. Important Note: This verse is often seen as a challenging passage, reflecting a time of great political turmoil and potential for disaster within Israel. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Discuss the historical context surrounding this verse? Connect it to other parts of the Bible?