Definition: Therefore they shall be as the morning cloud, and as the early dew that passeth away, as the chaff [that] is driven with the whirlwind out of the floor, and as the smoke out of the chimney.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Hosea 13:3. It's a really beautiful and poetic way to describe someone who is deeply loved and cherished by God. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Essentially, this verse describes someone who is incredibly precious and fleeting. Let’s unpack the imagery: “As the morning cloud…” – Think of a cloud that's just beginning to form in the early morning light. It’s new, gentle, and delicate. It represents someone who is fresh, innocent, and full of potential. “…and as the early dew that passeth away…” – Dew forms quickly, and then it evaporates. This symbolizes a time when someone is still new and vibrant, but isn't fully formed or established. They are still developing and have a lot of energy. “As the chaff [that] is driven with the whirlwind out of the floor…” - Chaff is like loose bits of straw that are blown away by the wind. This paints a picture of someone who is easily lost, scattered, or fleeting in life. They aren't stable or secure. “…and as the smoke out of the chimney…” – Smoke rises up from a chimney, dissipating quickly. This suggests someone who is temporary, ephemeral, and doesn’t last long. Their presence fades away. So, the whole image is saying that this person is: Fleeting: They won't last forever. Fragile: They are easily lost or damaged. Briefly Precious: They offer a special moment of beauty and value while they are here. The overall message is about the importance of valuing someone who is truly loved and cherished, because their time with us will be short. It’s a powerful metaphor for love – that it's precious and can vanish quickly when we don’t nurture it. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of Hosea 13? Or do you have any other questions about this imagery?