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Book of 2 Kings - Chapter 21 - Verse 13

21:13
And I will stretch over Jerusalem the line of Samaria, and the plummet of the house of Ahab: and I will wipe Jerusalem as a man wipeth a dish, wiping it, and turning it upside down.

Meaning

Here, in this verse from the Book of 2 Kings, God is using figurative language to convey the severity of His judgment upon Jerusalem. The reference to stretching out the line of Samaria and the plummet of the house of Ahab is symbolic of measuring the city for destruction, using the same standards by which Samaria and the house of Ahab were judged. This indicates that Jerusalem will face a similar fate due to its sinful ways. The imagery of wiping Jerusalem as a man wipes a dish, turning it upside down emphasizes the thoroughness and completeness of the destruction that will befall the city. This verse serves as a warning to the people of Jerusalem about the consequences of their disobedience and serves as a reminder of God's justice and righteousness. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of following God's commandments and living in obedience to Him.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of 2 Kings, we find a vivid description of God's judgment upon Jerusalem. The use of the imagery of a line and a plummet signifies the precise and thorough nature of the destruction that is to come. The reference to Samaria and the house of Ahab indicates the sinful practices and idolatry that have seeped into Jerusalem, leading to its downfall. By wiping Jerusalem as one would wipe a dish and turning it upside down, God is emphasizing the complete and total devastation that will befall the city. This verse serves as a warning to the people of Jerusalem to repent and turn back to God before it is too late. It also highlights the righteous judgment of God against sin and the consequences of turning away from Him.

American Standard Version

And I will stretch over Jerusalem the line of Samaria, and the plummet of the house of Ahab; and I will wipe Jerusalem as a man wipeth a dish, wiping it and turning it upside down.
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