2212. 'At the set time I will return to you' means a state that is to come. This is clear from the meaning of 'time' as state, as mentioned above in 2199. Here it is said that Jehovah was to return 'at the set time', and immediately after this 'at this time of life', or what amounts to the same, 'at this time next year'. Each expression embodies some peculiar and specific arcanum - 'set time' embodying all aspects as they exist together generally of the state meant by 'this time of life'. This phrase refers to the forthcoming general manifestation of all aspects of that state; but the particular manner of its coming is meant by 'this time of life'. In the Word, especially in the Prophets, it is usual for a state to be described by a pair of expressions that are seemingly alike, when in fact the first implies all aspects within the general whole, the second some definite aspect within that general whole.