Definition: When thy sisters, Sodom and her daughters, shall return to their former estate, and Samaria and her daughters shall return to their former estate, then thou and thy daughters shall return to your former estate.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Ezekiel 16:55. It’s a really important message about judgment and repentance. Here’s a simple explanation: What it means: This verse is saying that God will eventually judge those who have disobeyed him. Specifically, it refers to two cities – Sodom and Jerusalem – and the women who lived there. If they return to their old ways – to live as they were before, with wickedness and sin – then God will ask them to return to their original place in life – back to a state of righteousness and peace. Let's unpack it further: “When thy sisters, Sodom and her daughters, shall return to their former estate…” - This refers to the people of Sodom and its surrounding communities. They were known for being incredibly wicked, perhaps even practicing rituals that offended God. “…and Samaria and her daughters shall return to their former estate.” – This refers to the people of Jerusalem (Samaria) and its surrounding communities. They were also known for their wickedness. What’s the point? This verse is a warning and a call to repentance. It's telling us that God is watching over his people, and if they don't change their ways, He will ultimately punish them with judgment. It emphasizes that repentance (turning away from sin) is absolutely crucial. Important Note: This verse isn’t about a single event in the past. It speaks to a future time when God will judge those who have disobeyed him. In short, it's a prophecy of judgment coming for those who have strayed from God’s path. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give more context about the story of Sodom and Jerusalem? Discuss what this verse might mean in terms of our lives today?