Definition: Thou brakest the heads of leviathan in pieces, [and] gavest him [to be] meat to the people inhabiting the wilderness.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Psalm 74:14. It's a really interesting and symbolic passage! Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes God creating or bringing something back to life that was previously lost or damaged – specifically, a giant fish (leviathan). Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Thou brakest the heads of leviathan in pieces” : This is a bit tricky. “Braked” means to break or shatter. "Leviathan" is a very old name for a huge, monstrous sea creature – often seen as a symbol of chaos and evil. So, God broke or shattered the head of this beast. “[and] gavest him [to be] meat to the people inhabiting the wilderness” : This is the key part. God takes this broken-down leviathan and gives it food – “meat.” It’s not just any food; it's a gift of nourishment and life. "The people inhabiting the wilderness" refers to the Israelites, who were living in a difficult and isolated place. Giving them this meat symbolizes a way for God to help them survive and thrive. Overall Meaning & Symbolism: This verse is often interpreted as a symbol of hope and redemption. It speaks to: God’s boundless mercy and compassion: He doesn't just punish evil; he actively works to restore good. The power of forgiveness and new beginnings: Even something that was once destructive can be brought back to life through God’s grace. A promise of abundance and sustenance: The meat represents a future filled with prosperity, strength, and well-being for those who are in need. In short, it's a beautiful image of God actively restoring something that was lost or damaged, offering hope and life to those he cares about. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage within the larger story of Psalm 74? Talk about the symbolism it represents more deeply?