Definition: After many days thou shalt be visited: in the latter years thou shalt come into the land [that is] brought back from the sword, [and is] gathered out of many people, against the mountains of Israel, which have been always waste: but it is brought forth out of the nations, and they shall dwell safely all of them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 38:8. It’s a pretty dramatic and hopeful passage about God’s plan for Israel. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse speaks about a future return of the Israelites (the people of Israel) to their land, but with a significant change – it’s going to be a time of safety and peace for them. Let's unpack it word-by-word: "After many days thou shalt be visited..." : This means that God is preparing something significant to happen in the future. It’s not immediately happening, but it’s coming. "...in the latter years thou shalt come into the land..." : "Latter years" refers to a period of time, likely many years from now. This suggests a long-term plan. “Into the land” means returning to their home. "[that is] brought back from the sword, [and is] gathered out of many people..." : This part speaks about a battle or conflict that has happened in the past (the "sword"). It's being returned – it’s coming back after a long period of absence and perhaps even lost. It’s also saying that the Israelites are being removed from their current situation - they are being gathered away from other nations. "...against the mountains of Israel, which have been always waste..." : “Mountains of Israel” refers to the land itself – the territory that is currently occupied by them. "Waste" means neglected or unused. So, this part describes a time when the land was not properly cared for and wasn't used wisely. "...but it is brought forth out of the nations, and they shall dwell safely all of them." : This is the most important part! It says that God’s return will bring peace and safety to Israel, even with other nations being present. “They shall dwell safely” means that the Israelites will be protected from harm and can live in peace. “All of them” means all the nations – meaning every country outside of Israel. Overall Meaning: Ezekiel 38:8 is a message of hope for the future. God intends to bring back the Israelites to their land, not as conquerors, but as a peaceful and secure nation. It’s about a time of restoration and safety for them, even amidst other nations. It's a reminder that God is working in His own way, bringing about a greater good for His people. In simpler terms: "God is going to bring the Israelites back to their land, after a long time they’re going to be safe from enemies, and everyone else will live peacefully alongside them." --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these points in more detail? Provide a different perspective on this verse (e.g., its symbolic meaning)?