Definition: And should not I spare Nineveh, that great city, wherein are more than sixscore thousand persons that cannot discern between their right hand and their left hand; and [also] much cattle?
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jonah 4:11. It's a really important and surprising part of the story! Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: God is incredibly forgiving and compassionate, even with a city that’s been completely lost to sin and wickedness. Let’s unpack it: “And should not I spare Nineveh?” This is the key question. Jonah was instructed by God to go to Nineveh and preach to them. It's a huge command! “…that great city, wherein are more than sixscore thousand persons that cannot discern between their right hand and their left hand;” This describes Nineveh – it’s a large, bustling city. The word “great” emphasizes its importance. Jonah is saying that the city has a huge population – far more than you might imagine! And here’s the kicker: many of them are incredibly unskilled and don't understand how to distinguish right from left. They’re essentially lost in their own lives. “and [also] much cattle?” This is where it gets really interesting. Jonah is suggesting that the city has a lot of livestock (animals). It's not just about the people; it’s about the resources and wealth of the city. So, what does this all mean? It's a powerful message about God’s love and mercy. God isn't just focusing on Nineveh’s people – he’s acknowledging their existence despite their failings. He’s saying that even though they are lost and unskilled, God still has compassion for them. The Significance: This verse is often interpreted as a sign of God’s willingness to forgive and repent. It suggests that God's mercy isn’t limited to just humans; He’s willing to extend it to nations that have fallen into sin and darkness. It highlights the idea that all people deserve forgiveness, even those who are deeply flawed. In short, this verse is a reminder that God loves everyone, even when they don't deserve it. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Jonah? Discuss the historical context of the story? Explore the theological significance of this verse in more detail?