Definition: Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Behold, I will save my people from the east country, and from the west country;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Zechariah 8:7. It's a really important and slightly mysterious passage in the Bible. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse is essentially saying God is going to protect his people – specifically, those who are living in the east and west of Israel – from danger. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Thus saith the LORD of hosts…” - This is a formal way of saying "God speaks." It emphasizes that this is a serious declaration. “…Behold, I will save my people from the east country…” – "Behold" means “look” or “see.” So, it’s like, “I am going to protect my people from danger coming from the east.” The "east country" is a metaphorical place – think of it as a region or area where they were particularly vulnerable. “…and from the west country;” - Similarly, this means God will protect his people from danger coming from the west. What does this mean practically? This verse is often interpreted as a promise of protection for Israel during a time of great trouble – likely related to a war or invasion. It's a reassurance that God is watching over them and will intervene to defend them. It’s a message of hope amidst uncertainty. Important Context (briefly): This verse appears in the Book of Zechariah, which was part of a larger prophetic book written during a time of great anxiety for the Jewish people. It's believed to be part of a larger prophecy about the future. In short: God is going to protect his people – particularly those living east and west of him – from potential threats. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss its significance in the context of biblical history? Provide a related story or example?