Jeremiah 12:8

Authorized King James Version

Mine heritage is unto me as a lion in the forest; it crieth out against me: therefore have I hated it.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הָיְתָה
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#2
לִּ֥י
H0
#3
נַחֲלָתִ֖י
Mine heritage
properly, something inherited, i.e., (abstractly) occupancy, or (concretely) an heirloom; generally an estate, patrimony or portion
#4
כְּאַרְיֵ֣ה
is unto me as a lion
a lion
#5
בַיָּ֑עַר
in the forest
a copse of bushes; hence, a forest; hence, honey in the comb (as hived in trees)
#6
נָתְנָ֥ה
it crieth out
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#7
עָלַ֛י
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#8
בְּקוֹלָ֖הּ
a voice or sound
#9
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#10
כֵּ֥ן
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
#11
שְׂנֵאתִֽיהָ׃
against me therefore have I hated
to hate (personally)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Jeremiah, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Jeremiah.

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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