2 esdras 7:114 - intemperance is at an end, infidelity is cut off, but righteousness is grown, and truth is sprung up.

Generated Verse: 2 esdras 7:114

What does "2 esdras 7:114" mean?


The verse "intemperance is at an end, infidelity is cut off, but righteousness is grown, and truth is sprung up" from 2 Esdras 7:114 describes a visionary state of perfect moral and spiritual restoration that will occur at the end times, particularly after the tribulation and judgment. Let's break down each part:

"Intemperance is at an end": Intemperance refers to a lack of moderation or self-control, particularly regarding desires, passions, and sinful behavior. At the end, excessive desires, greed, lust, and all forms of self-indulgence will cease to exist. People will no longer be consumed by selfish and destructive impulses.

"Infidelity is cut off": Infidelity encompasses unfaithfulness, both in the sense of lack of belief in God (atheism/agnosticism) and the breaking of covenants with God. This signifies the complete eradication of unbelief and disloyalty to God. Everyone will recognize God's truth and dedicate themselves to following His commandments.

"Righteousness is grown": Righteousness signifies moral uprightness, justice, and conformity to God's will. This suggests that virtue will flourish. Moral and ethical living will be prevalent, and the world will be characterized by justice and integrity. The standard of living will be elevated by adherance to God's divine standards.

"Truth is sprung up": Truth represents the reality of God, His word, and the true understanding of the world. This phrase evokes an image of truth emerging or rising to the surface, becoming evident and widely acknowledged. Deception and falsehood will be dispelled, replaced by clarity, honesty, and genuine understanding of God's will. This also encompasses that God's Word will prevail.

Overall Meaning:

This verse paints a picture of a future world profoundly transformed. It's a time when:

Sin and evil are eradicated: Intemperance and infidelity disappear.
Virtue and faith reign: Righteousness flourishes, and truth becomes universally known.

This vision is often interpreted as describing the Messianic Age or the New Creation, a time of perfect harmony, justice, and spiritual fulfillment. It is a promise of ultimate hope and restoration.

Context in 2 Esdras:

It's essential to understand that 2 Esdras (also known as 4 Ezra) is an apocalyptic text. It deals with themes of suffering, theodicy (the problem of evil), and the end times. This verse is part of a larger vision given to Ezra, offering comfort and hope amidst despair and challenging questions about God's justice. The book depicts a period of intense tribulation before the eventual restoration described in verses like this one.

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