Definition: Now go, write it before them in a table, and note it in a book, that it may be for the time to come for ever and ever:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Isaiah 30:8. It's a really important and somewhat poetic verse about the future of Israel. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Essentially, it’s telling God to record something incredibly significant. Here’s a more detailed explanation: “Now go…” : This is a command from God. He’s instructing someone (likely a prophet or leader) to take action. “…write it before them in a table…” : This suggests creating a record, a structured list. Imagine writing down information neatly and systematically – that's what the verse is asking for. “…and note it in a book…” : This emphasizes the importance of detail and permanence. It’s not just a quick jotting down; it needs to be carefully documented. “…that it may be for the time to come for ever and ever:” This is the really profound part. It means this record – this list, this book – will last forever. “Ever and ever” signifies an endless duration. What does this verse say about the future? Historically, this passage was interpreted as a prophecy of Israel's eventual downfall. It suggested that God would send a message to Judah (the kingdom of Israel) that would reveal their sinfulness and ultimately lead to their destruction. However, over time, theologians have reinterpreted it – primarily through a New Testament perspective. Here’s the key takeaway: The verse isn't about what will happen in the future. It’s about God’s promise to remember and record everything that happened, even the bad things. It speaks of a lasting record of Israel’s history, a testament to their faithfulness (or lack thereof) as God sees it. In short, it's a powerful declaration of God's enduring watchfulness and record-keeping. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Explore a specific interpretation of its meaning?