Definition: The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and the terrible day of the LORD come.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important passage from Joel 2:31. It's a really powerful and symbolic verse in the Book of Joel. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a dramatic turning point – a time of immense judgment and destruction – that will happen before the Lord comes. It's essentially saying God is about to unleash something truly awful. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “The sun shall be turned into darkness…” - The sun represents God’s light and goodness. Turning it into darkness means a period of despair, hopelessness, and lack of hope. It signifies that God's presence is being obscured or diminished. “…and the moon into blood…” – The moon often symbolizes truth and clarity. Turning it into blood suggests a disruption of order, a loss of understanding, and perhaps even violence. It’s like a crucial piece of evidence is shattered or corrupted. “Before the great and terrible day of the LORD come…” - This is the key part. “The Great and Terrible Day of the Lord” refers to a time of intense judgment, a final showdown between God and his people. It's not just any day; it’s a significant event that will fundamentally change things. So, what does this verse mean ? It’s often interpreted as a prophecy about the coming of a great disaster – perhaps a political upheaval, a devastating war, or a period of widespread suffering. The “great and terrible day” signifies a time when God's judgment will be complete and unavoidable. It’s a warning to prepare for what’s to come, urging people to turn away from wickedness and seek God’s peace. Important Note: It’s crucial to remember that this is a prophecy – a prediction about the future. The exact details of what will happen are not explicitly stated. It's meant to be interpreted in its context within the larger story of the Old Testament, and it speaks to a time when God’s people will be called to repentance and seek His restoration. --- Resources if you want to learn more: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/verses/2316](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/verses/2316) Insights Bible: [https://insightsbiblestudy.com/2316/](https://insightsbiblestudy.com/2316/) Do you want me to explain any of these parts in more detail, or perhaps explore a related topic like the symbolism of light and darkness in scripture? Just let me know!