This verse from 1 Esdras 4:18 is part of a speech comparing the power of wine, the king, women, and truth. It is meant to illustrate the power of women over men. Let's break it down:
"Yes, and if men have gathered together gold and silver and any other goodly thing...": This refers to wealth and possessions. Men might accumulate riches and valuable items.
"...and see a woman which is comely in favor and beauty...": This describes an attractive woman. "Comely in favor" means pleasing in appearance or well-regarded. "Beauty" is straightforward - physical attractiveness.
In essence, the verse means: Even if men possess great wealth, when they see a beautiful and attractive woman...
The implication, which is developed further in the following verses, is that men will abandon their wealth and achievements for the sake of a woman. The speaker uses this to argue that women hold a powerful sway over men, even more than wealth or possessions. They are willing to give up everything for a chance with a beautiful woman.
It's important to understand this in the context of the whole speech. The speaker is trying to make a point about what is the strongest thing in the world, and the verse is a specific example illustrating the perceived power of women in attracting men.
This verse from 1 Esdras 4:18 is part of a speech comparing the power of wine, the king, women, and truth. It is meant to illustrate the power of women over men. Let's break it down:
"Yes, and if men have gathered together gold and silver and any other goodly thing...": This refers to wealth and possessions. Men might accumulate riches and valuable items.
"...and see a woman which is comely in favor and beauty...": This describes an attractive woman. "Comely in favor" means pleasing in appearance or well-regarded. "Beauty" is straightforward - physical attractiveness.
In essence, the verse means: Even if men possess great wealth, when they see a beautiful and attractive woman...
The implication, which is developed further in the following verses, is that men will abandon their wealth and achievements for the sake of a woman. The speaker uses this to argue that women hold a powerful sway over men, even more than wealth or possessions. They are willing to give up everything for a chance with a beautiful woman.
It's important to understand this in the context of the whole speech. The speaker is trying to make a point about what is the strongest thing in the world, and the verse is a specific example illustrating the perceived power of women in attracting men.
