Definition: And from above the gate of Ephraim, and above the old gate, and above the fish gate, and the tower of Hananeel, and the tower of Meah, even unto the sheep gate: and they stood still in the prison gate.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Nehemiah 12:39. It's a really powerful and significant passage about God’s judgment. Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a massive, overwhelming display of God’s power and displeasure. It paints a picture of something incredibly large and disruptive being deliberately placed in a place that’s meant for peaceful habitation – the gate of the city of Jerusalem. Let's unpack it word by word: “And from above the gate of Ephraim…” : This means above the main entrance to the city, specifically the gate of Ephraim. Ephraim was a significant area within Jerusalem. “…and above the old gate…” : This continues the image – above an older, more established gate. “…and above the fish gate…” : This adds another layer - above a gate that’s associated with fishing or trade. “And the tower of Hananeel…” : This is a crucial detail. "Hananeel" means "the one who speaks," and this refers to a prominent tower in Jerusalem – likely part of the temple complex. “…and the tower of Meah…” : Another significant tower! “even unto the sheep gate:” This is where it gets really dramatic. It’s not just about any gate; it's about the sheep gate. Sheep were an important part of the ancient Jerusalem economy, and this gate was a vital entry point for merchants and travelers. “and they stood still in the prison gate.” : This is the final, shocking part. The entire group – all those towers – were deliberately placed still in the prison gate. It’s as if they're frozen in place, refusing to move or be ignored. What does it mean? This verse describes a massive, deliberate act of defiance and disruption. It signifies: God’s Wrath: The verse is often interpreted as God showing his displeasure with the people of Israel and their disobedience. A Challenge to God's Authority: The towers were deliberately placed in a place that wasn't meant for them, challenging God's control over the city. A Sign of Punishment: It’s a clear sign of divine judgment – punishment for sin and rebellion. In short, it’s a vivid illustration of God’s power to punish those who defy him. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific event or story from the Bible? Give you another example of how this verse is used in scripture?