2 esdras 7:22 - Nevertheless they were not obedient to him; but spoke against him, and imagined for themselves vain things;

Generated Verse: 2 esdras 7:22

What does "2 esdras 7:22" mean?


2 Esdras 7:22, "Nevertheless they were not obedient to him; but spoke against him, and imagined for themselves vain things;" describes a situation where people, despite knowing or having received some form of divine guidance or instruction ("him," likely referring to God), chose to disobey and rebel. Let's break it down:

"Nevertheless they were not obedient to him;": This highlights the core problem - a lack of obedience. This suggests a willful rejection of God's will or commands. They knew what they were supposed to do, but refused.

"but spoke against him;": This intensifies the disobedience into open opposition. It wasn't just passive non-compliance; they actively criticized, questioned, or blasphemed God. This could manifest in words of disbelief, doubt, defiance, or even hatred.

"and imagined for themselves vain things;": This indicates that, instead of following God, they created their own false or worthless beliefs and plans. "Vain things" suggests things that are empty, without substance, and ultimately leading to nothing good. They substituted God's truth with their own fantasies, misguided desires, or self-serving ideologies. The "vain things" might be interpreted as things that are:

Futile: Leading to nothing productive or meaningful.
Idolatrous: Placing value on something other than God.
Arrogant: Based on a prideful belief in their own wisdom.
Self-deceptive: Leading them further away from the truth.

Overall Meaning:

The verse paints a picture of rebellion against God rooted in a rejection of His authority and a preference for one's own self-centered and ultimately empty pursuits. It's a condemnation of those who choose their own desires and flawed thinking over divine guidance, and who compound their sin by actively speaking out against God.
It is a fairly common theme within religious texts to discuss disobedience to God, and the consequences thereof. This verse is no different, it condemns those that disregard God and go against his teachings.

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