Papua New Guinea Tok Pisin (Buk Baibel Long Tok Pisin 2008 + DC)
“Mipela i laik bai yu tokim ol kuskus bai ol i go ritim ol buk bilong gavman ol i bin raitim long taim bilong ol tumbuna bilong yu. Sapos yu mekim olsem, ol i ken tokim yu na bai yu save ol manmeri bilong dispela taun Jerusalem ol i manmeri bilong bikhet. Long taim bilong ol tumbuna yet ol i bin givim hevi long ol king na long ol man i bosim ol provins. Ol Jerusalem i bin sakim tok bilong ol king na long dispela as tasol, ol king i bin bagarapim dispela taun.
What Does This Mean?
This verse is part of a letter from people against rebuilding Jerusalem to King Artaxerxes. They suggest checking old records to show that Jerusalem has a history of rebellion and troublemaking, which is why it was destroyed before.
Explained for Children
Imagine you're playing with your friends and one of them says, 'Hey, let's check the rule book to see why the other kids used to get in trouble for playing here.' That's kind of what this verse is saying, but about a big city and kings instead of a playground.
Historical Background
Ezra, a priest and scribe, wrote this book after the Babylonian exile. It was written around 450-440 BC and is aimed at the returning exiles who were facing opposition in rebuilding Jerusalem. The cultural setting was one of political intrigue and resistance from local populations.
Living It Out Today
In today's context, this verse can be seen as a caution against repeating historical mistakes. For example, if a business repeatedly faces legal troubles, it might be wise to review their history to understand and address the underlying issues.