Definition: And his head was brought in a charger, and given to the damsel: and she brought [it] to her mother.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly strange passage from Matthew 14:11. It’s definitely one of the most baffling and debated parts of the Bible! Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Story: Jesus was walking through a field with 12 disciples when he encountered a large, frightening storm. As lightning flashed and thunder roared, a man (likely a demon) appeared and tried to grab Jesus’s head with his hand. Jesus, in a moment of divine power, raised his hand above the man's head, and he was thrown into the sea! What happened next? The man, who is identified as Peter, was then brought to his mother (likely Mary). The story then describes how this man – Peter – eventually became a fish. He's described as being “brought in a charger” – meaning he’s been transformed into a fish. So, what does it really mean? This is where it gets tricky and has been interpreted in various ways for centuries. There isn't one single, definitive answer. However, here are some common understandings: Symbolic Representation: The most widely accepted interpretation is that this story is a powerful symbolic representation of Jesus’s sacrifice. Jesus’s head being thrown into the sea symbolizes his death and resurrection. A Test of Faith: Some scholars suggest it's a test of Peter’s faith, showing him that he is willing to surrender himself to God’s will, even in the face of great danger. A Transformation: It could be interpreted as a literal transformation of Peter into a fish – a metaphor for his spiritual death and rebirth. Important Note: This passage is often cited as an example of the "Shepherd and the Sheep" parable (Matthew 25:32-46) which describes Jesus as a shepherd who cares for his flock. The image of the lamb being thrown into the wilderness could represent the suffering and death of Jesus. In short, it’s a vivid and symbolic story that highlights Jesus' sacrifice and transformation. --- Do you want to explore any specific aspect of this passage further? For example, would you like me to: Explain the historical context surrounding this story? Discuss different interpretations of the symbolism?