Definition: Before their face the people shall be much pained: all faces shall gather blackness.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Joel 2:6. It’s a really powerful and dramatic image, and it speaks to a significant shift in time and how God intends to work with his people. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a period of intense suffering and despair for the Jewish people – a time when they will be deeply troubled and devastated. It’s predicting a complete turning point, a moment where everything changes dramatically. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Before their face”: This refers to the present time – the current moment of the Jewish community. It’s not about some distant future; this is happening right now . “The people shall be much pained”: This means the people will experience significant emotional distress, pain, and sadness. It's not just a little discomfort; it suggests deep suffering. “All faces shall gather blackness”: This is the key image. “Blackness” isn’t literal darkness – it symbolizes a complete loss of hope, joy, and light. It represents a profound spiritual darkness, a turning away from God, and a feeling of despair. The phrase "all faces" emphasizes that this suffering will be felt by everyone in the community. What does it mean in a broader sense? Historically, Joel 2:6 is often interpreted as a prophecy about the time when God will bring about a complete and terrible judgment upon Israel. It’s a warning about the consequences of rejecting God’s law and ignoring His message. It suggests that this suffering isn't just about personal pain; it’s a consequence of a broken relationship with God. Important Context: Joel 2:6 is part of a larger series of prophecies in the book of Joel, which are focused on the coming of judgment against Israel and its neighbors. It’s often seen as a foreshadowing of a major catastrophe that will occur due to their rejection of God's covenant with them. In short: Joel 2:6 warns about a time of immense suffering for the Jewish people, representing a complete turning away from God and a loss of hope. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context more deeply? Explore what this verse might symbolize in a broader spiritual sense (like repentance or judgment)?