Definition: And the fourth angel sounded, and the third part of the sun was smitten, and the third part of the moon, and the third part of the stars; so as the third part of them was darkened, and the day shone not for a third part of it, and the night likewise.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Revelation 8:12. It’s a pretty intense and symbolic description of a coming event. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a dramatic darkening of the sky during a time of great distress and upheaval. It’s essentially saying that a significant portion of the sun, moon, and stars will be obscured. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And the fourth angel sounded…” – This suggests a powerful, possibly urgent voice coming from Heaven. “…and the third part of the sun was smitten…” - The sun is being struck or damaged. It’s being weakened and losing its power. Think of it like a giant spotlight being dimmed. “…and the third part of the moon was smitten…” – The moon, which also reflects light, is similarly affected. “…and the third part of the stars was smitten…” - The stars, those distant points of light, are also impacted. “So as the third part of them was darkened…” – This is a key point. The darkness isn't just a simple dimming; it’s complete darkness. It’s like a veil being drawn across the sky. “And the day shone not for a third part of it…” - The sun, now dimmed and obscured, doesn’t shine as brightly as it normally would. It's reduced to a small fraction of its usual power. “…and the night likewise.” – The night also becomes darkened, mirroring the sky’s darkness. What does this mean ? This is often interpreted as a sign of impending judgment and catastrophe. It suggests that God is about to unleash His wrath upon those who have been wicked or rebellious. It's a visual representation of a time when things are going terribly wrong, and the consequences will be severe. Important Note: It’s crucial to remember this is a symbolic passage. The "sun," "moon," and "stars" represent important aspects of God’s presence and authority in our lives. Their darkening signifies that these things are being diminished or removed, and that there will be a time of reckoning. In short, the verse describes a darkening of the sky, symbolizing a period of great disruption and impending judgment. --- Do you want me to: Explain any particular part in more detail? Connect this verse to other stories or themes in the Bible? Discuss possible interpretations of the symbolism?