👉 Gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders, gather the children, and those that suck the breasts: let the bridegroom go forth of his chamber, and the bride out of her closet.
Explanation:
Okay, let's break down this incredibly symbolic passage from Joel 2:16. It’s a really rich and complex verse, often interpreted in several ways, but here’s my explanation focusing on its core meaning:
Overall Meaning:
This verse is essentially about the
beginning of a significant period of renewal and restoration for Israel.
It's talking about a time when God is going to bring back his covenant relationship with His people – a relationship that has been broken and neglected. It’s a dramatic, almost apocalyptic vision.
Let's break it down word by word:
"Joel 2:16..."
: This tells us this is part of a prophecy or a significant event described in the book of Joel.
“Gather the people…”
: This means calling everyone back to God, to worship Him, and to be part of His covenant community. It’s a call to return to faithfulness.
“Sanctify the congregation…”
: "Sanctify" means to make holy or pure. This refers to the entire group of Israelites – their families, communities, and religious practices. It's about restoring their relationship with God through righteousness.
“Assemble the elders…”
: The elders are those who have been wise and experienced in the faith. They are brought back together as a group to guide the people.
“Gather the children…”
: This is a very important part – it refers to
all
of Israel, not just the young or privileged. It's about bringing back everyone, regardless of their status.
“And those that suck the breasts...”
: This is the most debated and symbolic part. It’s referring to women who are breastfeeding infants. The image of a woman sucking her child is very powerful and evokes imagery of motherhood, nurturing, and the life-giving nature of God.
Now, let's interpret what it means:
“Let the bridegroom go forth of his chamber…”
: The "bridegroom" is a metaphor for Jesus Christ – God’s Son. “Go forth” signifies that He is coming to restore things.
“And the bride out of her closet.”
: This is where it gets really symbolic. The “bride” (the bride) isn't just a woman, but represents
spiritual renewal and restoration
for Israel. "Out of her closet" suggests this renewal will happen
after
a period of darkness or decline.
Putting it all together:
Joel 2:16 describes a time when God is preparing to bring back his people to a renewed relationship with Him. It's about a complete restoration – not just rebuilding, but a fundamental shift in their hearts and lives. It’s a promise of a future filled with righteousness, purity, and the return of God's covenant.
Important Note:
This is a complex passage and has been interpreted in various ways throughout history. Different religious traditions have different understandings of its meaning. However, the general message – that God is returning to restore his relationship with His people – remains central to this verse.
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Would you like me to:
Explain any specific part of the verse in more detail?
Discuss the historical context of Joel 2?
Explore different interpretations of the symbolism within the passage?