A prophecy of comfort completes the journey of redemption and reconciliation between God and the nation of Israel. The tragic names given to the prophet's children, originally meant to symbolize destruction and distance, are transformed into promises of blessing, growth, and a renewed relationship. The promise of planting the nation back in the land represents a fresh start. After being scattered across foreign territories, the people will be firmly rooted in their own home once again [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ].
The primary approach among commentators is that the imagery of planting points to immense growth and fertility, much like seeds placed in the soil. This reveals a profound understanding of the purpose of exile. Just as a farmer plants a small handful of seeds to harvest a massive crop, the nation was scattered so that countless converts could join them and ultimately return with them to the Land of Israel [רש״י, רד״ק, מלבי״ם]. Through this process, the concept of being scattered among enemies is replaced by a Divine planting that produces a holy harvest [מלבי״ם].
Following this, God reverses the meaning of the daughter's name, promising to show deep kindness and mercy to a people who were previously denied it [מצודת דוד]. While some view this promise as a reference to the generation of the forefathers [אבן עזרא], another perspective suggests it speaks directly to the exiled Ten Tribes. For them, this mercy will take the form of hidden Divine guidance, operating quietly through the natural laws of the world [מלבי״ם].
The final stage of healing focuses on the third son, as God declares a renewed bond, telling those who were once rejected that they are His people. This declaration of belonging is directed toward those born during the exile [אבן עזרא], or alternatively, toward the tribes of Judah and Benjamin, who are destined to experience God's presence in an open, supernatural way [מלבי״ם]. Hearing God's call, the people will respond with complete faith, fully accepting Him as their God [מצודת דוד].
Regarding when this redemption will happen, it is generally seen as a prophecy waiting to be fulfilled in the distant future. However, it can also be understood as a conditional promise. If the exiled people change their ways and turn back to God, they will earn the right to return to their homeland, overcoming even the harshest decrees of their exile [אבן עזרא].