Definition: For I will restore health unto thee, and I will heal thee of thy wounds, saith the LORD; because they called thee an Outcast, [saying], This [is] Zion, whom no man seeketh after.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 30:17. It's a really powerful and significant message about God’s plan for Israel. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is saying He intends to heal and restore something that’s been damaged – specifically, the people of Israel. He’s promising to fix things up and bring them back to a place where they were once valued. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “For I will restore health unto thee…” : This means God is going to heal someone (or something) – likely referring to the Israelites. "Restore health" implies healing from illness, perhaps physical or spiritual. “…and I will heal thee of thy wounds…” : This is a direct promise of healing. It’s not just about fixing a small boo-boo; it's about addressing deep-seated problems and pain. “Wounds” could be anything – maybe they’ve been exiled, oppressed, or have suffered significant loss. “Sayeth the LORD…” : This is God speaking directly to Jeremiah. “Because they called thee an Outcast…” : This is a crucial part. The people of Israel were often treated as strangers and excluded from the community. They were considered "outsiders" – different from the rest of humanity. “…saying, This [is] Zion, whom no man seeketh after.” : This is where it gets really important. “Zion” is a very special name in Jewish tradition, referring to God’s chosen people and their land. The speaker is saying that this Zion – the people of Israel – is being called out, or excluded from their rightful place. They are not valued or sought after. Putting it all together: Jeremiah 30:17 describes a situation where God is actively working to restore something damaged in Israel and bring them back into favor with Him. He’s promising healing and restoration for the people, but he's also highlighting that they are being treated as outsiders and not valued. It’s a message of hope and a reminder of the importance of recognizing and valuing God’s chosen people. Why is this important? This verse speaks to a long history of exile and separation within Israel’s story. It's a call for repentance – acknowledging their fallen state and seeking God's forgiveness and restoration. It suggests that God has a plan for them, even when they seem lost and excluded. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific event or story in the Bible? Discuss its significance within Jewish tradition?