Definition: Therefore thy gates shall be open continually; they shall not be shut day nor night; that [men] may bring unto thee the forces of the Gentiles, and [that] their kings [may be] brought.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 60:11. It’s a pretty powerful and symbolic passage about God’s future plan for the world. Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse speaks about God’s desire to bring everything into His kingdom – to make it whole and complete. It's essentially saying that God wants to welcome all people, regardless of their background or origin, into His presence and to participate in His rule. Let’s break it down word by word: “Therefore thy gates shall be open continually” : This means God will keep His gates (a symbolic representation of the boundary between God's kingdom and the world) open forever. It signifies a constant, unwavering flow of people and things into God’s realm. “they shall not be shut day nor night” : This speaks to God’s boundless generosity and willingness to welcome everything – people, cultures, traditions, and ideas. It emphasizes that there will always be room for new arrivals. “that [men] may bring unto thee the forces of the Gentiles, and [that] their kings [may be] brought.” : This is the most important part. "Forces of the Gentiles" means all people – not just Jews or Christians – but everyone from every nation and culture. “Their kings may be brought” signifies that God intends to include rulers, leaders, and those in positions of power, bringing them into His kingdom as well. Overall Meaning - A Vision of a Complete Kingdom: Isaiah 60:11 is often interpreted as a vision of a future world where God's kingdom – encompassing all people – will be fully realized. It’s a picture of a future where borders and divisions disappear, and everyone can participate in the divine plan. It suggests that God’s plan isn't just about Israel; it’s about bringing all of humanity into unity with Him. Important Context (Briefly): This verse is often connected to the Old Testament prophecies about a future kingdom where God will bring all people together. It's part of a larger story about God's plan for the world and His ultimate triumph over evil. Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect in more detail (e.g., the symbolism)? Provide a historical or biblical context?