Jeremiah 23:1

Authorized King James Version

Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ה֣וֹי
Woe
oh!
#2
רֹעִ֗ים
be unto the pastors
to tend a flock; i.e., pasture it; intransitively, to graze (literally or figuratively); generally to rule; by extension, to associate with (as a frie
#3
מְאַבְּדִ֧ים
H6
that destroy
properly, to wander away, i.e., lose oneself; by implication to perish (causative, destroy)
#4
וּמְפִצִ֛ים
and scatter
to dash in pieces, literally or figuratively (especially to disperse)
#5
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#6
צֹ֥אן
the sheep
a collective name for a flock (of sheep or goats); also figuratively (of men)
#7
מַרְעִיתִ֖י
of my pasture
pasturage; concretely, a flock
#8
נְאֻם
saith
an oracle
#9
יְהוָֽה׃
the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

Analysis

Within the broader context of Jeremiah, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by introducing key themes that will be developed throughout 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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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