Jeremiah 10:4

Authorized King James Version

They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers, that it move not.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בְּכֶ֥סֶף
it with silver
silver (from its pale color); by implication, money
#2
וּבְזָהָ֖ב
and with gold
gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
#3
יְיַפֵּ֑הוּ
They deck
properly, to be bright, i.e., (by implication) beautiful
#4
בְּמַסְמְר֧וֹת
it with nails
a peg (as bristling from the surface)
#5
וּבְמַקָּב֛וֹת
and with hammers
properly, a perforatrix, i.e., a hammer (as piercing)
#6
יְחַזְּק֖וּם
they fasten
to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra
#7
וְל֥וֹא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#8
יָפִֽיק׃
that it move
to waver

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Jeremiah Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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