Definition: Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will bring again the captivity of Jacob’s tents, and have mercy on his dwellingplaces; and the city shall be builded upon her own heap, and the palace shall remain after the manner thereof.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 30:18. It’s a really powerful and complex passage, but we can understand it at its core. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about restoring a lost people and rebuilding something precious. Let's unpack the parts: “Thus saith the LORD” : This sets the scene – it’s a direct message from God, speaking to someone who listens. “Behold, I will bring again the captivity of Jacob’s tents” : This refers to a period in Israel’s history where they were scattered and lost. “Captivity” means being exiled or separated from their homeland. "Jacob's tents" is a specific group of people – basically, the Israelites who left Egypt. “and have mercy on his dwellingplaces” : God isn't just bringing them back ; he’s showing compassion and kindness to those who were once lost. “Dwelling places” means their homes, families, and communities. “and the city shall be builded upon her own heap” : This is a huge part of it! God wants to rebuild a specific city – likely Jerusalem – in a way that’s completely new and reflects the glory of God. “Heap” means a large area or foundation, suggesting something massive and significant being built. “and the palace shall remain after the manner thereof” : This is really important! God wants to create a magnificent palace (a royal residence) that’s exactly like the original structure of the city. It’s not just a copy; it's a reflection of the glory and power of God. In simpler terms, it means: God is going to restore the Israelites back to their homeland, rebuild their community, and create a magnificent new city that will be a powerful symbol of God’s presence. What’s the big takeaway? It speaks of restoration, renewal, and divine favor. It's a message of hope – that even after a period of separation and hardship, God has a plan to bring people back together and create something truly special. Important Note: This is a complex passage within the Old Testament. It’s often interpreted as a prophecy about Israel's future. Different theological perspectives have varying interpretations of its meaning. --- Do you want me to: Explain any specific part in more detail? Talk about what this verse might be related to in the context of the Old Testament story of Jacob and his family?