Horav Shmelka of Nikelsburg Z”l offers an insightful interpretation for the word and “He will have compassion upon you” in the context of the pasuk. One who shows compassion in his relationship with people has undoubtedly repented his past sins, for transgressions create an attitude of cruelty towards others within an individual. Consequently, the Torah states that after one has repented, you will notice a compassionate nature about him. The character traits of a Jew are directly influenced by his spiritual attitude. Although he may superficially exhibit tendencies of compassion and decency, these are only facades which are not inherently part of his personality. Character traits which are regulated by one’s spiritual tendency constitute the true essence of one’s personality.
The commentators are puzzled by the redundancy of “and He will return”. The Meshech Chochmah suggests the following interpretation: Two types of Jews are in golus (exile). The first type is comprised of those individuals who view themselves as l,uca- “captives” in exile. They are uncomfortable and yearn for the moment of redemption in which they will be reunited with their fellow Jews. The second type are Jews who are among the ohng – “the nations”. They do not view themselves as existing in golus. They do not exhibit a yearning to leave exile, for they are comfortable in their current state. Rather, they perceive their present displacement as nothing more than a minor inconvenience to which they must adjust. Hashem will take pity of both of these groups when the ultimate redemption occurs.
