Jeremiah 4:23

I beheld the earth, and, lo, it was without form, and void; and the heavens, and they had no light.

Word-by-Word Analysis

רָאִ֙יתִי֙

H7200

I beheld

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

הָאָ֔רֶץ

H776

the earth

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

וְהִנֵּה

H2009

lo!

תֹ֖הוּ

H8414

and lo it was without form

a desolation (of surface), i.e., desert; figuratively, a worthless thing; adverbially, in vain

וָבֹ֑הוּ

H922

and void

a vacuity, i.e., (superficially) an undistinguishable ruin

וְאֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

הַשָּׁמַ֖יִם

H8064

and the heavens

the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r

וְאֵ֥ין

H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle

#10

אוֹרָֽם׃

H216

and they had no light

illumination or (concrete) luminary (in every sense, including lightning, happiness, etc.)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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

How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?

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