Jeremiah 18:3

Authorized King James Version

Then I went down to the potter's house, and, behold, he wrought a work on the wheels.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וָאֵרֵ֖ד
Then I went down
to descend (literally, to go downwards; or conventionally to a lower region, as the shore, a boundary, the enemy, etc.; or figuratively, to fall); cau
#2
בֵּ֣ית
house
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
#3
הַיּוֹצֵ֑ר
to the potter's
to mould into a form; especially as a potter; figuratively, to determine (i.e., form a resolution)
#4
וְהִנֵּה֛וּ
and behold
lo!
#5
עֹשֶׂ֥ה
he wrought
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#6
מְלָאכָ֖ה
a work
properly, deputyship, i.e., ministry; generally, employment (never servile) or work (abstractly or concretely); also property (as the result of labor)
#7
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#8
הָאָבְנָֽיִם׃
H70
on the wheels
a pair of stones (only dual); a potter's wheel or a midwife's stool (consisting alike of two horizontal disks with a support between)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Jeremiah, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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