Definition: He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth [it].

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this incredibly rich and symbolic passage from Revelation 2:17. It’s often misunderstood, so we’ll go through it step-by-step. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: This verse is a prophecy about the future of the Church and its ultimate destiny. It speaks of a time when God will “speak” to His people – specifically, to the Church – and reveal something significant. Let's break down each part: 1. “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” This is the core message. "He who has an ear" refers to those who are listening and receptive to God’s word. It’s a call to actively listen for His guidance. 2. “To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna.” This is where it gets really interesting. "Overcome" means to be strong, to be able to withstand something. The “hidden manna” refers to a spiritual nourishment – perhaps the truth of God’s word, or a deeper understanding of His plan for humanity. Giving this "food" to someone who overcomes signifies that they will receive a blessing and a greater purpose in the future. It's like a gift of grace and a position of authority. 3. “And will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth [it].” This is the most profound part. The "white stone" represents a transformation – a shedding of old identities and a rebirth into a new state of being. “A new name written” signifies a divine revelation or recognition. It’s a unique, personal identity granted to those who receive this blessing. The phrase "which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it" is crucial. It means the gift isn't something easily understood or grasped by others; it’s a secret and personal revelation only they can understand. Overall Interpretation - The Big Picture: This verse paints a picture of God’s ultimate plan for His Church. It suggests that after a period of testing and struggle, God will reveal Himself through His Word to the faithful. This revealing isn't just about intellectual understanding; it’s about receiving a profound gift – a blessing, a transformation, and a unique identity – that is reserved solely for those who truly hear and understand Him. Why is this important? Hope: It offers hope for the future of believers. Revelation: It’s a message of divine revelation and destiny. Importance of Listening: It emphasizes the importance of attentive listening to God's word. Disclaimer: This explanation is based on interpretations within biblical scholarship and theology. The meaning of these passages can be complex and open to debate. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these points in more detail? Provide a different perspective or interpretation? Connect this verse to other parts of the Bible?