Definition: O the hope of Israel, the saviour thereof in time of trouble, why shouldest thou be as a stranger in the land, and as a wayfaring man [that] turneth aside to tarry for a night?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 14:8. It’s a really important and somewhat sobering passage about God’s relationship with Israel. Here's a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse is essentially saying that God is incredibly concerned about Israel’s future. He’s worried about them being lost, abandoned, and unable to find their way. He sees them as drifting away from the path of righteousness and safety. Let's unpack it word by word: “O the hope of Israel…” – This immediately establishes the gravity of the situation. It’s a deep feeling of concern for the nation God has chosen. “…the saviour thereof in time of trouble…” – This means God is protecting and safeguarding Israel from danger, hardship, and ultimately, destruction. He's seeing them through difficult times. “Why shouldest thou be as a stranger in the land?” - This is the key part. God isn’t just worried about them , he's worried about us . He sees us as being vulnerable and needing protection, much like someone wandering lost and without direction. “and as a wayfaring man [that] turneth aside to tarry for a night?” – This is the metaphor. Think of it like a traveler on a long journey. A wayfaring man – someone who’s temporarily stopping to rest or look around – is essentially avoiding their destination, and that’s what God is doing with Israel. He's letting them experience difficulties, uncertainty, and perhaps even despair, rather than guiding them toward a secure future. What it means in simpler terms: God sees Israel as needing guidance and protection, but he's allowing them to struggle and be vulnerable. He’s acknowledging that they might need time to figure things out and adjust their course. It suggests a sense of responsibility – God is responsible for the well-being of his people. Important Context: This verse comes before Jeremiah’s prophecy about the destruction of Israel, which is a very difficult message for many to contemplate. It highlights God's unwavering concern for His chosen people. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific historical event or theme? Discuss the meaning of the metaphor (the wayfaring man)?