Definition: And it came to pass, [that] when they had made an end of eating the grass of the land, then I said, O Lord GOD, forgive, I beseech thee: by whom shall Jacob arise? for he [is] small.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Amos 7:2. It's a really important and somewhat unsettling passage in the Old Testament. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Situation: “When they had made an end of eating the grass of the land…” – This refers to a period when the people of Israel were enjoying a harvest or gathering food from the fields. It was a time of plenty and celebration. “…then I said, O Lord GOD, forgive, I beseech thee: by whom shall Jacob arise?” – This is where it gets tricky. Amos, a prophet, is speaking to God about a young boy named Jacob (often translated as “Israel”). He’s asking God if he should forgive Jacob. What does "Jacob" mean? Jacob was the patriarch of the Hebrew people. He's the father of Isaac and Abraham, the founders of Judaism. “Arise” – this is key. The verse says that Jacob is “small.” It’s not about his physical size; it’s a metaphor for his potential . He’s seen as having a future that isn't fully realized or bright. The Meaning of the Verse - It’s About Hope & Warning: Amos is essentially saying: “God, I need you to look beyond this present moment and see what's coming for Jacob.” He’s expressing a deep concern about the future and the potential for hardship for Jacob. The “small” part suggests a difficult or bleak future. It implies that Jacob will face trials, perhaps even suffering, but he’s not seen as having a bright or promising path ahead. It's a warning. Amos is urging God to consider this future and to act with compassion for Jacob. Overall Interpretation: The verse speaks to a time of great uncertainty and potential disappointment for Jacob. It highlights that God sees the future, even if it’s not immediately clear, and that He desires to protect his people from suffering. --- Important Note: This is a complex passage with layers of meaning. Different interpretations exist within biblical scholarship. However, this explanation captures the core of what the verse conveys: a sense of concern for Jacob's future and God's watchful eye over his descendants. Do you want me to explain any aspect of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Discuss the context of the Old Testament? Explain what “Jacob” represents in biblical history?