Jeremiah 31:22

Authorized King James Version

How long wilt thou go about, O thou backsliding daughter? for the LORD hath created a new thing in the earth, A woman shall compass a man.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
עַד
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
#2
מָתַי֙
properly, extent (of time); but used only adverbially (especially with other particle prefixes), when (either relative or interrogative)
#3
תִּתְחַמָּקִ֔ין
How long wilt thou go about
properly, to wrap; hence, to depart (i.e., turn about)
#4
הַבַּ֖ת
daughter
a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)
#5
הַשּֽׁוֹבֵבָ֑ה
O thou backsliding
apostate, i.e., heathenish or (actually) heathen
#6
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#7
בָרָ֨א
hath created
(absolutely) to create; (qualified) to cut down (a wood), select, feed (as formative processes)
#8
יְהוָ֤ה
for the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#9
חֲדָשָׁה֙
a new thing
new
#10
בָּאָ֔רֶץ
in the earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#11
נְקֵבָ֖ה
A woman
female (from the sexual form)
#12
תְּס֥וֹבֵֽב
shall compass
to revolve, surround, or border; used in various applications, literally and figuratively
#13
גָּֽבֶר׃
a man
properly, a valiant man or warrior; generally, a person simply

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 building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Jeremiah.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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