Definition: And the second took her, and died, neither left he any seed: and the third likewise.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Mark 12:21. It's a really important and somewhat unsettling verse in the Bible. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Core of the Verse: “And the second took her…” – This refers to Jesus’ mother, Mary, who was looking for him. She found him dead. “…and died, neither left he any seed.” – This is the key part. Jesus died without leaving a son. “…and the third likewise.” – This means that Jesus’ brother, Joseph, also died without leaving a son. What it's saying (in simpler terms): Jesus died alone and without any offspring. It suggests a profound and unusual way of his death - a complete absence of heirs. Possible Interpretations & Significance: This verse is often interpreted as a symbolic representation of Jesus’ sacrifice. Here are a few ways to think about it: The Sacrifice as the Ultimate Hope: Jesus’ death was seen as an ultimate act of hope and redemption for humanity. It offered forgiveness and eternal life, regardless of whether he had children or not. A New Beginning: The verse could symbolize a new beginning – a new covenant established through his death and resurrection – where God's promise is fulfilled and believers are reconciled to him. The End of Lineage: Some interpretations suggest it’s about the end of the human line, which Jesus represents. Important Note: It's crucial to understand that this verse doesn’t literally mean there was no son. It’s a symbolic representation of his sacrifice and the ultimate hope for humanity. Resources if you want to learn more: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/english](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/english) - This allows you to read the verse in different translations. Wikipedia - Mark 12:21: [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_12%3A21](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_12%3A21) --- Do you want me to delve deeper into any specific aspect of this verse, like its historical context, theological significance, or different interpretations? For example, would you like to know: More about the context in the Gospel of Mark? How this verse relates to the concept of redemption?