Definition: And now for a little space grace hath been [shewed] from the LORD our God, to leave us a remnant to escape, and to give us a nail in his holy place, that our God may lighten our eyes, and give us a little reviving in our bondage.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezra 9:8. It’s a really important and complex passage, but I'll explain it in plain language. Here’s what it means, broken down: “And now for a little space grace hath been showed…” – This is saying that God has given a temporary pause or mercy to us. “Grace” here refers to God’s favor and compassion. It's not about forgiveness of sins, but about offering relief from hardship. “…from the LORD our God…” – This tells us we're talking about a special relationship with God. “…to leave us a remnant to escape…” – This means that God is allowing us a chance to stay alive and not be completely destroyed. It’s like a safety net. “…and to give us a nail in his holy place…” – "Nail" is a very powerful word. It refers to a sacred, important place within the Temple (a sanctuary where God's presence was felt). “Giving us” means offering us something – perhaps a chance to rebuild or to be restored to what’s right. “…that our God may lighten our eyes…” – This is a bit poetic. “Lighten our eyes” suggests that God will ease the burden and pain we're experiencing. It's about restoring our vision and hope. “…and give us a little reviving in our bondage.” – "Bondage" means being trapped or held back, often by injustice or oppression. “Reviving” means to restore something to life and strength. This suggests that God is offering us a chance for restoration and freedom from difficult circumstances. Overall Meaning: This verse speaks about a time of hardship and suffering, but it also offers God’s mercy and a glimmer of hope. It's a message of comfort and reassurance that God cares deeply for his people, even when things are tough, and is willing to offer a chance for renewal and deliverance. It emphasizes that God is not just concerned with punishment, but with restoring us to a place of wholeness and peace. Important Context: Ezra 9:8 is part of a larger story in the Old Testament about a period of exile and oppression in Judah. The book tells of a time when the people were living in a way that God didn’t approve, and God was giving them a chance to repent and return to him. Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Give you an example of how this verse might be interpreted in a specific historical context (like the exile)?