2 esdras 8:9 - But that which keeps and that which is kept shall both be kept by your keeping: and when the womb gives up again that which has grown in it,
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What does "2 esdras 8:9" mean?
The verse from 2 Esdras 8:9 is part of a longer lament and meditation on the suffering of humanity. It's a complex and poetic statement, and its meaning is open to interpretation, but here's a breakdown of its potential significance:
"But that which keeps and that which is kept shall both be kept by your keeping": This refers to God's power and responsibility.
"That which keeps" is generally understood to be a reference to God. God sustains and protects all things.
"That which is kept" could represent creation, the righteous, or even human life itself.
"Your keeping" emphasizes that God's protection and preservation are the reason anything continues to exist. Without God's active intervention and care, nothing would endure.
"and when the womb gives up again that which has grown in it": This is a powerful metaphor for resurrection or rebirth.
The "womb" symbolizes the earth, death, or perhaps even a state of spiritual potential.
"That which has grown in it" represents the dead, souls awaiting judgment, or even humanity as a whole.
"Gives up again" suggests a return to life, a resurrection from the dead, or a new beginning. It speaks of a time when what was hidden or buried will be revealed or reborn.
Overall Meaning and Context:
The verse speaks to a few key themes within the context of 2 Esdras:
God's Sovereignty: It emphasizes God's ultimate control over life and death, creation, and resurrection.
The Mystery of Divine Justice: Esdras is struggling with the problem of suffering and injustice in the world. This verse, while not providing a simple answer, points to a future where God will ultimately right all wrongs and bring forth new life.
Hope for the Future: Despite the current state of despair, the verse offers a glimmer of hope. It suggests that there will be a time of restoration and renewal, when those who have died will be brought back to life.
Different Interpretations:
Literal Resurrection: Some interpret the verse as a direct reference to the physical resurrection of the dead at the end of time.
Spiritual Rebirth: Others see it as a metaphor for spiritual transformation and renewal, both in this life and in the afterlife.
National Restoration: Given the historical context of 2 Esdras (written after the destruction of the Temple and the Babylonian exile), some scholars believe the verse may also allude to the restoration of Israel as a nation.
In conclusion, 2 Esdras 8:9 is a verse laden with symbolism and meaning. It speaks to God's power, the hope of resurrection, and the ultimate triumph of justice, offering comfort and assurance to those who are struggling with the complexities of life and faith.
2 esdras 8:9 - But that which keeps and that which is kept shall both be kept by your keeping: and when the womb gives up again that which has grown in it,
What does "2 esdras 8:9" mean?
The verse from 2 Esdras 8:9 is part of a longer lament and meditation on the suffering of humanity. It's a complex and poetic statement, and its meaning is open to interpretation, but here's a breakdown of its potential significance:
"But that which keeps and that which is kept shall both be kept by your keeping": This refers to God's power and responsibility.
"That which keeps" is generally understood to be a reference to God. God sustains and protects all things.
"That which is kept" could represent creation, the righteous, or even human life itself.
"Your keeping" emphasizes that God's protection and preservation are the reason anything continues to exist. Without God's active intervention and care, nothing would endure.
"and when the womb gives up again that which has grown in it": This is a powerful metaphor for resurrection or rebirth.
The "womb" symbolizes the earth, death, or perhaps even a state of spiritual potential.
"That which has grown in it" represents the dead, souls awaiting judgment, or even humanity as a whole.
"Gives up again" suggests a return to life, a resurrection from the dead, or a new beginning. It speaks of a time when what was hidden or buried will be revealed or reborn.
Overall Meaning and Context:
The verse speaks to a few key themes within the context of 2 Esdras:
God's Sovereignty: It emphasizes God's ultimate control over life and death, creation, and resurrection.
The Mystery of Divine Justice: Esdras is struggling with the problem of suffering and injustice in the world. This verse, while not providing a simple answer, points to a future where God will ultimately right all wrongs and bring forth new life.
Hope for the Future: Despite the current state of despair, the verse offers a glimmer of hope. It suggests that there will be a time of restoration and renewal, when those who have died will be brought back to life.
Different Interpretations:
Literal Resurrection: Some interpret the verse as a direct reference to the physical resurrection of the dead at the end of time.
Spiritual Rebirth: Others see it as a metaphor for spiritual transformation and renewal, both in this life and in the afterlife.
National Restoration: Given the historical context of 2 Esdras (written after the destruction of the Temple and the Babylonian exile), some scholars believe the verse may also allude to the restoration of Israel as a nation.
In conclusion, 2 Esdras 8:9 is a verse laden with symbolism and meaning. It speaks to God's power, the hope of resurrection, and the ultimate triumph of justice, offering comfort and assurance to those who are struggling with the complexities of life and faith.