Definition: And the governors of Judah shall say in their heart, The inhabitants of Jerusalem [shall be] my strength in the LORD of hosts their God.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Zechariah 12:5. It’s a really important and somewhat dramatic passage about the future of Judah (part of Israel). Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says that the governors of Judah – the people who govern the region around Jerusalem – will feel incredibly proud and powerful because they believe the people within Jerusalem are their greatest strength. Let’s unpack that a little further: “And the governors…” : This refers to the leaders of the Jewish communities in Judah. “…of Judah shall say…” : This tells us who is being addressed – these leaders. “…in their heart, The inhabitants of Jerusalem [shall be] my strength in the LORD of hosts their God.” : This is the core of the verse. It means that they will feel a deep sense of pride and superiority because of the people living in Jerusalem. The word "shall" suggests a strong, certain belief. “Their God” emphasizes that this isn't just a feeling, but a fundamental conviction about their power and worth. What’s the bigger picture? This verse is part of a larger story in the Bible that speaks to the future of Israel. It describes a time when there will be conflict between the Jewish people and the surrounding nations. The governors are essentially saying, "We believe the people of Jerusalem are vital – we see them as essential for our power and well-being.” Important Note: The exact meaning and interpretation of this verse have been debated over the centuries. It’s a complex passage that speaks to themes of leadership, pride, and the importance of the people God chose to protect. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the context of this verse within the larger biblical story?