31:2 people who survived the sword. The remnant through whom God’s purposes will continue (v. 7; 6:9 note; 23:3 note). Contrast 15:2.

wilderness. Judah’s exile in Babylon and subsequent restoration are sometimes compared with Israel’s wanderings in the wilderness prior to entering the Promised Land (see Is. 40:3, 4; 43:19, 20). Like the first exodus, this restoration will be a demonstration of the Lord’s power to save.