Definition: And [they of] Ephraim shall be like a mighty [man], and their heart shall rejoice as through wine: yea, their children shall see [it], and be glad; their heart shall rejoice in the LORD.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Zechariah 10:7. It’s a really beautiful and hopeful passage about God’s care for His people. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that God sees the Ephraimites – that's the people of the region around Jerusalem – and He wants to bless them. It’s suggesting a time of great joy and happiness for them, and this joy will be shared with their children. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Zechariah 10:7” : This refers to a specific prophecy given to Zechariah, a prophet who was watching over the Ephraimites. It's a message of hope and blessing. “And [they of] Ephraim” : This means "and the people of Ephraim." Ephraim is a city in Israel, historically associated with the people of that region. “shall be like a mighty man” : This isn’t just about physical strength. It's about being strong, powerful, and filled with purpose. Like a mighty man, they will be thriving and flourishing. “and their heart shall rejoice as through wine” : This is the key part! The verse says their hearts will rejoice – they’ll feel joy and happiness – much like you might feel when you drink wine. It's a metaphorical expression of pure, heartfelt delight. “Yea, their children shall see it” : This emphasizes that this joy isn’t just for Zechariah; it's for everyone in Ephraim! The children (and future generations) will witness and be blessed by this happiness. “and be glad” : This is a direct expression of the joy they’ll feel. “their heart shall rejoice in the LORD” : This is the final, most important part – it's saying that their joy will be focused on God. It means they will praise and thank Him for His care and blessings. Overall Meaning: The verse paints a picture of a future where the Ephraimites are blessed with abundance, prosperity, and happiness, all thanks to God’s watchful eye and love. It speaks of a time when their hearts are filled with joy and they will be drawn to praise and worship Him. Why is this important? This verse is often seen as a reminder that God is actively involved in the lives of His people and that He cares deeply for them, even amidst challenges. It’s a message of hope and encouragement, reminding us that we aren't forgotten. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with a specific example? Discuss its significance in the context of biblical history? Compare it to other passages about God's care for His people?