Definition: For a small moment have I forsaken thee; but with great mercies will I gather thee.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful and somewhat mysterious verse from Isaiah 54:7: “For a small moment have I forsaken thee; but with great mercies will I gather thee.” Here's what it means in simpler terms, broken down into pieces: 1. "For a small moment have I forsaken thee…" “Forsaken” means abandoned or left behind. It implies someone is being treated differently than they should be. "Have I forsaken thee?" This is the key part – it’s not about a permanent loss, but a temporary separation. It suggests a time of distance or perhaps even a challenge. 2. "...but with great mercies will I gather thee." “With great mercies” This is crucial. It means God isn't just punishing or rejecting someone harshly. Instead, He’s offering great kindness and compassion . "Gather thee" This suggests bringing someone back into a close relationship – perhaps to forgive them, to heal their wounds, or to restore something precious. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: The verse speaks of God's loving concern for us, even when we might not deserve it. It’s about a temporary separation and then a deep, restorative return. It suggests: God’s Love is Unconditional: He loves us, regardless of our mistakes or actions. Forgiveness & Redemption: God isn't simply letting things go; He's offering a chance for reconciliation and restoration. A Restoration of Relationship: The verse implies a yearning to reconnect with someone – potentially with forgiveness and renewed hope. It’s often interpreted as a promise of eventual healing and reunion between God and humanity. Context is Important: This passage usually appears in the context of Old Testament prophecies, especially concerning the future restoration of Israel after a time of exile. It's a message of hope and reconciliation. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the meaning of this verse within a specific biblical story or figure? Give you some examples of how this idea is seen in the Bible?