Jeremiah 18:9

Authorized King James Version

And at what instant I shall speak concerning a nation, and concerning a kingdom, to build and to plant it;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְרֶ֣גַע
And at what instant
a wink (of the eyes), i.e., a very short space of time
#2
אֲדַבֵּ֔ר
I shall speak
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
#3
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#4
גּ֖וֹי
concerning a nation
a foreign nation; hence, a gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts
#5
וְעַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#6
מַמְלָכָ֑ה
and concerning a kingdom
dominion, i.e., (abstractly) the estate (rule) or (concretely) the country (realm)
#7
לִבְנ֖וֹת
to build
to build (literally and figuratively)
#8
וְלִנְטֽוֹעַ׃
and to plant
properly, to strike in, i.e., fix; specifically, to plant (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Jeremiah, this passage highlights kingdom of God through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of kingdom connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about kingdom, 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 kingdom of God 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 kingdom in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People