Definition: The wise [men] are ashamed, they are dismayed and taken: lo, they have rejected the word of the LORD; and what wisdom [is] in them?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 8:9. It’s a really powerful and somewhat unsettling passage about a group of people rejecting God's guidance. Here’s a simplified explanation: What it Means: This verse is saying that the people in this group – we can assume they were the leaders or influential figures at the time – have completely turned away from following God’s instructions and wisdom. They’ve essentially rejected what God has told them to do. “The wise men are ashamed”: This suggests a deep sense of regret, fear, and perhaps even shame. It implies they were once knowledgeable and thoughtful but now feel deeply troubled by their choices. “…they are dismayed”: This goes beyond just feeling sad; it’s a profound sense of loss and disappointment. They've lost something important – likely guidance or a path to righteousness. “and taken: lo, they have rejected the word of the LORD”: This is the core of the message. They’ve actively chosen to ignore or disregard God’s messages and teachings. It’s like they’re deliberately choosing to walk away from what's right. “What wisdom [is] in them?” This is the crucial question. The verse isn’t just about their rejection; it asks: What good has come of this? What wisdom or understanding are they gaining by ignoring God’s guidance? In simpler terms: The people were so focused on themselves and their own desires that they completely ignored what God wanted them to do. They've lost a valuable part of their lives – the wisdom and direction provided by God. It suggests a significant loss of spiritual potential and perhaps a growing problem within the community. Context & Significance: This verse is often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of pride and independence, and the importance of listening to God’s voice. It's part of a larger story in the Old Testament that highlights the consequences of rejecting divine guidance. It speaks to the idea that true wisdom comes from understanding and following God’s will. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further? Connect it to a specific biblical story or theme? Give you some examples of how this verse might be interpreted in different ways?