Jeremiah 4:20

Authorized King James Version

Destruction upon destruction is cried; for the whole land is spoiled: suddenly are my tents spoiled, and my curtains in a moment.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
שֶׁ֙בֶר֙
Destruction
a fracture, figuratively, ruin; specifically, a solution (of a dream)
#2
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#3
שֶׁ֙בֶר֙
Destruction
a fracture, figuratively, ruin; specifically, a solution (of a dream)
#4
נִקְרָ֔א
is cried
to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)
#5
כִּ֥י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#6
שֻׁדְּד֣וּ
is spoiled
properly, to be burly, i.e., (figuratively) powerful (passively, impregnable); by implication, to ravage
#7
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#8
הָאָ֑רֶץ
for the whole land
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#9
פִּתְאֹם֙
suddenly
instantly
#10
שֻׁדְּד֣וּ
is spoiled
properly, to be burly, i.e., (figuratively) powerful (passively, impregnable); by implication, to ravage
#11
אֹהָלַ֔י
are my tents
a tent (as clearly conspicuous from a distance)
#12
רֶ֖גַע
in a moment
a wink (of the eyes), i.e., a very short space of time
#13
יְרִיעֹתָֽי׃
and my curtains
a hanging (as tremulous)

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

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 revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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