Definition: Hodijah, Hashum, Bezai,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Nehemiah 10:18. It's a really important and somewhat complex passage about forgiveness and reconciliation. Here’s the explanation in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse speaks about a powerful and significant act of forgiveness – a deep and heartfelt apology that leads to restoration. Let's unpack it word by word: “Hodijah” (Hodiyah): This is a plural form of “Hod,” which means "to forgive." It’s the core of the verse. “Hashum” (Hashum): This word means “to repent.” It signifies turning away from wrongdoing and acknowledging one's mistakes. “Bezai” (Bezai): This is a crucial part. It means "to return." It’s essentially saying, "Return to me" or "Come back to me with your apology." Putting it all together: The entire verse means: “Hodijah, Hashum, Bezai – forgive me, repent, and return.” What does this really mean? It's a very strong statement of forgiveness. It highlights that the person who offers this forgiveness is deeply remorseful for their actions and is willing to make amends. The act of returning isn’t just about saying sorry; it's about taking concrete steps to repair the damage caused and rebuilding trust. Context is Key: This verse appears in a story about Nehemiah, who was sent to Jerusalem to rebuild the walls after a period of chaos. It’s often interpreted as a symbol of a powerful and complete forgiveness that can restore a broken relationship or community. In essence, this verse emphasizes that forgiveness isn't just about saying sorry; it's about actively returning and rebuilding trust. --- Would you like me to: Explain the significance of this verse in more detail? Give you another Bible verse with a similar theme?