Definition: The LORD hath chastened me sore: but he hath not given me over unto death.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Psalm 118:18. It's a really beautiful and comforting verse from the Bible! Here's what it means in simple terms: “The LORD hath chastened me sore: but he hath not given me over unto death.” “The LORD hath chastened me sore” : This is a metaphorical way of saying that God has dealt a harsh or difficult situation with us. "Chastening" means to discipline, correct, or punish someone – it’s like a very firm lesson. Think of it as a painful experience, but not necessarily a punishment in the traditional sense. “but he hath not given me over unto death” : This is the really important part! It means that God isn't letting us die. He’s protecting us and keeping us alive. “Giving me over unto death” suggests a potential for ending, but this verse emphasizes that God is actively working to prevent it. So, the whole verse is saying: Even though we've been through something tough and painful (a "chastening"), God has given us strength and protection to continue living our lives. The Meaning Behind It This verse is often interpreted as a reminder of God’s love and care for us. It speaks to the idea that He wants us to endure hardships, but He's not abandoning us. It’s a message of hope – even when things are difficult, we have a strong foundation in God's love. Why it’s important: It's a powerful reminder of God's presence and protection throughout our lives. --- Do you want to explore any aspect of this verse further? For example: Are you curious about its historical context (when was it written)? Would you like me to explain what the biblical meaning behind this verse is, or perhaps compare it to a similar idea in other stories?