Definition: Turn you to the strong hold, ye prisoners of hope: even to day do I declare [that] I will render double unto thee;
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Zechariah 9:12. It's a really beautiful and comforting message! Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God wants to help you stay strong and hopeful, even when things feel difficult or challenging. He’s offering a promise of protection and support. Let’s unpack it word-by-word (loosely): “Turn you to the strong hold…” – This isn't about a physical place. It means turning your attention and heart towards God. It’s about seeking Him and trusting in His guidance, even when things are tough. "Strong hold" suggests a deep commitment and belief. "...ye prisoners of hope..." – This is the key part! “Prisoners” implies being held captive or restricted by something – maybe fear, doubt, or sadness. “Hope” here means having faith in God's plan for you, even when you don’t understand it yet. "...even to day do I declare..." - This is a powerful promise! “Declare” means to make a statement or promise. "Even to day" means continuously and always. It’s not just a one-time thing – He's saying this promise will continue throughout your life. "[that] I will render double unto thee;" - This is the most significant part! “Render double” is a very unusual phrase in the Bible, and it means double or more . It signifies that God’s help and protection are greater than what you need or deserve. He's offering an extra measure of support to keep you safe and secure. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: The verse is essentially saying: “Don’t worry about things that are hard; God is with you, and He will protect you completely.” It’s a reassurance that God is watching over you, providing strength and security, and offering unwavering support through thick and thin. It's often interpreted as a promise of continued blessing and safety. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific situation you’re facing? Give you some biblical context (like where it appears in the Bible)?