Definition: (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 2:35. It's a really powerful and thought-provoking passage about suffering and revelation. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a moment of intense pain and distress – a “sword” piercing through someone’s own soul. It’s not just any kind of sadness; it's a painful, deeply felt anguish that shakes the foundations of their thoughts. Let’s unpack it further: “Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also…” - This is a dramatic way of saying that someone is experiencing profound suffering. It’s not just a little boo-boo; this is a serious, deeply personal pain. "Piercing through your own soul" suggests it's going to be a painful and transformative experience for them. “…that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” - This is the key part. It’s saying that because of this suffering, many people will start to understand what’s truly important in their lives. It's suggesting that deep down, even amidst the pain, there might be a truth or understanding that's been hidden. What does it mean practically? This verse is often interpreted as meaning that: Suffering can lead to greater awareness: When we’re hurt, we start to see things differently – maybe we realize what’s truly valuable in our lives, or how much we need to be kind to ourselves. God's plan is about revealing truth: It’s a reminder that God wants us to grow and understand His will for us, even when it feels incredibly difficult. It’s not just about feeling the pain; it's about understanding why we feel the way we do. In short, Luke 2:35 is a message of hope – that suffering can lead to profound insights and understanding. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Provide context for it within the story of Jesus’s birth? Discuss different interpretations of the verse?