Definition: Withhold thy foot from being unshod, and thy throat from thirst: but thou saidst, There is no hope: no; for I have loved strangers, and after them will I go.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 2:25. It's a really beautiful and poignant piece of language, and it’s packed with meaning! Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about compassion and mercy , especially towards those who are suffering or in need. Let’s unpack it part by part: “Withhold thy foot from being unshod…” – This means to stop moving or walking around, to be cautious and avoid a dangerous situation. It's like putting your foot down to protect yourself. “…and thy throat from thirst:” - This refers to feeling thirsty or desperate. It suggests a deep need for something. “But thou saidst, There is no hope: no; for I have loved strangers, and after them will I go.” – This is the really important part. Jeremiah is saying that he (Jeremiah) has been profoundly moved by someone’s suffering or desperation. He feels a strong sense of empathy and love. He understands that this person needs help and offers them comfort. But then, he realizes that he will ultimately leave them behind – he'll move on to another place. So, what does it mean? It’s essentially a statement about God’s unconditional love . God doesn’t just look down on people who are suffering; He actively chooses to care for and be with those in need. He recognizes our humanity and offers comfort, even when we don't deserve it. It speaks to a deep sense of compassion and forgiveness. Why is this verse significant? It’s often interpreted as a message of hope – even in the darkest times, God is still present and caring. It reminds us that God doesn't just judge us; He loves us deeply enough to reach out and offer support. --- Does this explanation help you understand the verse better? Would you like me to: Explain another part of Jeremiah 2? Discuss the historical context (when was it written)? Connect it to a larger theme in the Bible (like forgiveness or redemption)?