Definition: And this [man] shall be the peace, when the Assyrian shall come into our land: and when he shall tread in our palaces, then shall we raise against him seven shepherds, and eight principal men.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible verse! It's a pretty dramatic prophecy about the future. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse speaks about a time when a powerful, potentially destructive force – the Assyrian Empire – will arrive in your land. And God promises that this person who is facing this threat will be instrumental in bringing peace and protecting your people. Let’s unpack it word by word: “And this [man] shall be the peace…” This means that this person is destined to be a source of calm, harmony, and stability during a difficult time. They'll be someone who brings resolution and prevents conflict. “…when the Assyrian shall come into our land…” This refers to the arrival of the Assyrian Empire – a powerful, militaristic empire that ruled much of the Middle East at that time (ancient Israel and Judah). “…and when he shall tread in our palaces, then shall we raise against him seven shepherds, and eight principal men.” This is the key part. The Assyrians were known for their military might and their tendency to conquer cities and settlements. This verse describes a strategic response – God intends to put a large group of people (seven shepherds) on alert and prepare to fight against the Assyrian army. It’s like setting up a strong defense before they arrive. What does this all mean practically? It suggests that God is watching over His people, anticipating the arrival of a powerful enemy, and preparing for a conflict. It’s a message of hope – even in the face of danger, God can work to protect and preserve His people. Important Note: This verse isn't about a specific individual but rather a future event where God will be actively involved in protecting and preserving His nation. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with a metaphor? Discuss its historical context (when was it written)? Explore the meaning of the words "shepherds" and "principals"?