and say unto the Ammonites: hear the word of the Lord GOD:(LORDE God) Thus sayeth the Lord GOD:(LORDE God) For so much as thou speakest over my Sanctuary. A ha, I trow it be now suspended: and over the land of Israel, I trow it be now desolate: yea and over the house of Judah, I trow they be now led away prisoners:
What Does This Mean?
This verse is God speaking through the prophet Ezekiel to the Ammonites. God is upset because the Ammonites were happy when God's special place, the land of Israel, and the people of Judah were suffering. The message is that God does not approve of rejoicing over others' misfortunes.
Explained for Children
Imagine if you were sad because you lost your favorite toy, and your friend said 'Yay, now I can play with your toy!' That wouldn't be nice, right? Here, God is telling the Ammonites they were not kind when they were happy about the troubles of others.
Historical Background
Ezekiel, a prophet in the 6th century BCE, was communicating God's message to the Ammonites. This was during the time of the Babylonian exile, where many Israelites were suffering, and the Ammonites took advantage of their misfortune.
Living It Out Today
In today's world, we can apply this message by not rejoicing in the misfortunes of others. For example, if a colleague loses a job, it's not right to be happy about it, even if it might seem to benefit you.
