Definition: To him that smote Egypt in their firstborn: for his mercy [endureth] for ever:
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Psalm 136:10. It's a really powerful and poetic image! Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse speaks about God’s unending mercy – a steadfast love that never fades. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “To him that smote Egypt” : This refers to a powerful, destructive event – imagine a huge flood or devastating earthquake that destroyed a large area. "Egypt" in this context is often interpreted as representing a nation or empire, and the “smote” part means to inflict great harm or destruction upon it. “in their firstborn” : This is the crucial part. It’s referring to the firstborn . The firstborn were considered the most precious and important children in ancient Egypt – symbolizing royalty and divine favor. “for his mercy endureth” : This means God's mercy (His loving kindness and compassion) continues forever . It doesn't just stop after a specific event; it remains a constant, unwavering presence. In essence, the verse is saying: Even when something terrible happens – something that causes significant pain and loss – God’s love and mercy will never end. He will always be there to comfort, support, and forgive. Why is this important? It's a reminder of God’s unwavering goodness and our hope in the face of hardship. It suggests that even when we feel hopeless or defeated, God offers us a constant source of love and protection. --- Do you want to explore any aspect of this verse further? For example, would you like to know: What the "Egypt" represents in more detail? How this relates to themes in the Bible (like forgiveness or redemption)?