Definition: They have said, Come, and let us cut them off from [being] a nation; that the name of Israel may be no more in remembrance.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Psalm 83:4. It’s a really powerful verse about grief and loss. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes profound sadness and despair when a nation – specifically Israel – is lost or destroyed. The speaker feels overwhelmed by the pain of this loss, and they express a desire to end the memory of Israel’s existence. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “They have said…” : This suggests that there was a group or people who were actively planning to do something terrible – to cut off Israel from being part of a nation. It implies a deliberate act of destruction. “…Come, and let us cut them off…” : This is the core of the verse’s message. The speaker wants to remove Israel from existence completely. They want to erase its memory entirely. “…from being a nation; that the name of Israel may be no more in remembrance.” : This is the most poignant part. It's saying that they want to stop remembering Israel’s story, its history, and its identity. The "name of Israel" – meaning the entire nation – will no longer be spoken of or remembered. What does it mean emotionally? This verse speaks to a deep sorrow and a feeling of utter hopelessness when witnessing something devastating happen. It's about recognizing that a nation’s fate is lost, and the pain of that loss can be incredibly overwhelming. It’s a lament for what has been lost – a people, a history, and a future. Context - Why does it exist? Psalm 83 is part of a larger collection of Psalms written during times of great sorrow and suffering in ancient Israel. It's often interpreted as reflecting the grief experienced by David after the loss of his son, Jonathan. It’s a powerful expression of mourning and a plea for divine comfort. In short: This verse is a heartbreaking cry from someone who feels utterly devastated by the destruction of a nation and wants to prevent its memory from ever being remembered. --- Do you want me to explain any specific part of this verse in more detail, or perhaps explore its connection to other biblical stories? For example, we could talk about: The historical context of the Psalm The symbolism behind the image of a "cut off" nation