Shuv is one of the most common verbs in the Hebrew Bible: to turn, to return, to come back. It is the great Old Testament word for repentance — not primarily feeling sorry, but turning around: leaving the wrong road and coming home to God. Turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways, the prophets plead; return unto me, and I will return unto you.
This makes repentance hopeful rather than heavy. To shuv is simply to come home, and God is always facing the road, ready to welcome the returning. Joel captures both the call and the reason: turn unto the LORD your God, for he is gracious and merciful. Every act of turning back is met, not with a scowl, but with open arms.
Shuv in Scripture
And rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the LORD your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil.