Topical Encyclopedia The term "Returner" is not explicitly found in the Bible; however, the concept of returning is a significant theme throughout the Scriptures. It often refers to the act of turning back to God, repentance, or the physical return of individuals or groups to a particular place, such as the Israelites returning from exile.Return to God The call to return to God is a central message in the prophetic books of the Old Testament. The prophets frequently urged the people of Israel to repent and return to the Lord, emphasizing God's readiness to forgive and restore. In the book of Joel, the prophet declares, "Even now," declares the LORD, "return to Me with all your heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning" (Joel 2:12). This call to return is not merely a physical act but a heartfelt spiritual renewal and recommitment to God's covenant. Return from Exile The return from Babylonian exile is a pivotal event in the history of Israel. After seventy years in captivity, the Israelites were allowed to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. This return was seen as a fulfillment of God's promise and a demonstration of His faithfulness. Ezra 1:3 records the decree of Cyrus, king of Persia: "Whoever among you belongs to His people, may his God be with him, and may he go to Jerusalem in Judah and build the house of the LORD, the God of Israel. He is the God who is in Jerusalem" . The return from exile is a powerful symbol of restoration and hope. Return of the Prodigal Son In the New Testament, the parable of the Prodigal Son, found in Luke 15:11-32, illustrates the theme of return in a personal and relational context. The younger son, after squandering his inheritance, decides to return to his father, acknowledging his sin and unworthiness. The father's response is one of compassion and joy, as he welcomes his son back with open arms. This parable highlights God's grace and the joy in heaven over one sinner who repents and returns to the Father. Return of Christ The ultimate return anticipated in the New Testament is the second coming of Jesus Christ. Believers are encouraged to live in readiness and anticipation of His return, which will bring the fulfillment of God's kingdom. Jesus Himself promised, "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and welcome you into My presence, so that you also may be where I am" (John 14:3). The return of Christ is a cornerstone of Christian eschatology, offering hope and assurance of eternal life with God. Return to the Land The concept of returning to the land is also significant in the context of God's promises to the patriarchs. The land of Canaan was promised to Abraham and his descendants as an everlasting possession (Genesis 17:8). Throughout the Old Testament, the return to the land is associated with God's covenant faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises. The return from exile and the restoration of the land are seen as acts of divine intervention and blessing. In summary, the theme of return in the Bible encompasses spiritual, physical, and eschatological dimensions, reflecting God's desire for His people to turn back to Him, the fulfillment of His promises, and the hope of Christ's return. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) One who returns.Strong's Hebrew 3433. Yashubi Lechem -- "returner of bread," a man of Judah... "returner of bread," a man of Judah. Transliteration: Yashubi Lechem Phonetic Spelling: (yaw-shoo-bee' leh'-khem) Short Definition: Jashubi-lehem. ... /hebrew/3433.htm - 6k Library Concerning the Earth, which Varro Affirms to be a Goddess, Because ... Jesus at the Well of Sychar Thesaurus Returner (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) One who returns. Multi-Version Concordance Returner (1 Occurrence). Zechariah 9:8 And I have pitched ... /r/returner.htm - 6k Jahzerah (1 Occurrence) Jashub (5 Occurrences) Returnest (1 Occurrence) Passer (9 Occurrences) Returns (27 Occurrences) Returned (328 Occurrences) Passes (74 Occurrences) Resources Returner: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Returner (1 Occurrence)Zechariah 9:8 Subtopics Related Terms |