Jeremiah 46:23

Authorized King James Version

They shall cut down her forest, saith the LORD, though it cannot be searched; because they are more than the grasshoppers, and are innumerable.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כָּרְת֤וּ
They shall cut down
to cut (off, down or asunder); by implication, to destroy or consume; specifically, to covenant (i.e., make an alliance or bargain, originally by cutt
#2
יַעְרָהּ֙
her forest
a copse of bushes; hence, a forest; hence, honey in the comb (as hived in trees)
#3
נְאֻם
saith
an oracle
#4
יְהוָ֔ה
the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#5
כִּ֖י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#6
לֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#7
יֵֽחָקֵ֑ר
though it cannot be searched
properly, to penetrate; hence, to examine intimately
#8
כִּ֤י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#9
רַבּוּ֙
because they are more
properly, to cast together , i.e., increase, especially in number; to multiply by the myriad
#10
מֵֽאַרְבֶּ֔ה
than the grasshoppers
a locust (from its rapid increase)
#11
וְאֵ֥ין
and are innumerable
a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle
#12
לָהֶ֖ם
they (only used when emphatic)
#13
מִסְפָּֽר׃
a number, definite (arithmetical) or indefinite (large, innumerable; small, a few); also (abstractly) narration

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Jeremiah. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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