Definition: When Ephraim saw his sickness, and Judah [saw] his wound, then went Ephraim to the Assyrian, and sent to king Jareb: yet could he not heal you, nor cure you of your wound.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Hosea 5:13. It’s a really important message about forgiveness and seeking help when we’re struggling. Here’s the explanation in plain language: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that when someone is hurting deeply – feeling sick or injured – it's okay to reach out for help, even if it means going to someone who isn’t perfect or might not be able to fix everything. It highlights the importance of compassion and seeking support. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “When Ephraim saw his sickness…” – Imagine a person feeling really bad – maybe they're grieving, anxious, or just struggling with something difficult. “…and Judah [saw] his wound…” – This refers to someone who is hurting – perhaps someone who has made a mistake, experienced loss, or is facing a serious problem. “Wound” here represents a deep emotional or spiritual pain. “then went Ephraim to the Assyrian…” – The Assyrians were a powerful and often harsh king in ancient times. The “Assyrian” is a metaphor for someone who isn’t kind, perhaps selfish, or doesn't understand how to help. “…and sent to king Jareb:” - This is the crucial part. King Jareb was a really difficult and angry king. He wasn’t known for being generous or understanding. “yet could he not heal you, nor cure you of your wound?” – This is the core of the verse. The Assyrian King couldn't help Ephraim or Judah because he wasn't kind or compassionate enough. He couldn't offer a solution to their pain. What does this mean in a broader sense? Forgiveness and Compassion: The verse encourages us to be kind and understanding, even when someone is hurting. It suggests that sometimes, we need to extend compassion to those who are struggling, even if they aren’t perfect or easy to help. Seeking Help: It reminds us that reaching out for support – whether it's talking to a trusted friend, counselor, or religious leader – is important when we're facing difficult challenges. Acceptance of Suffering: It acknowledges that suffering can be painful and sometimes overwhelming. It’s okay to ask for help because it doesn’t mean you’re weak; it means you’re human. In short, the verse encourages us to offer kindness and seek support when we're hurting, recognizing that even those who aren't perfect might need a helping hand. Do you want me to explain any of these parts in more detail or perhaps connect this verse to a specific situation?