Jeremiah 4:26

Authorized King James Version

I beheld, and, lo, the fruitful place was a wilderness, and all the cities thereof were broken down at the presence of the LORD, and by his fierce anger.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
רָאִ֕יתִי
I beheld
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#2
וְהִנֵּ֥ה
lo!
#3
הַכַּרְמֶ֖ל
and lo the fruitful place
a planted field (garden, orchard, vineyard or park); by implication, garden produce
#4
הַמִּדְבָּ֑ר
was a wilderness
a pasture (i.e., open field, whither cattle are driven); by implication, a desert
#5
וְכָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#6
עָרָ֗יו
and all the cities
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#7
נִתְּצוּ֙
thereof were broken down
to tear down
#8
מִפְּנֵ֖י
at the presence
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#9
יְהוָ֔ה
of the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#10
מִפְּנֵ֖י
at the presence
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#11
חֲר֥וֹן
and by his fierce
a burning of anger
#12
אַפּֽוֹ׃
anger
properly, the nose or nostril; hence, the face, and occasionally a person; also (from the rapid breathing in passion) ire

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 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

Related Resources

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

People