Jeremiah 48:20

Authorized King James Version

Moab is confounded; for it is broken down: howl and cry; tell ye it in Arnon, that Moab is spoiled,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הֹבִ֥ישׁ
is confounded
to be ashamed, confused or disappointed; also (as failing) to dry up (as water) or wither (as herbage)
#2
מוֹאָֽב׃
Moab
moab, an incestuous son of lot; also his territory and descendants
#3
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#4
חַ֖תָּה
for it is broken down
properly, to prostrate; hence, to break down, either (literally) by violence, or (figuratively) by confusion and fear
#5
הֵילִ֣יליּ׀
howl
to howl (with a wailing tone) or yell (with a boisterous one)
#6
וּֽזְעָ֑קיּ
and cry
to shriek (from anguish or danger); by analogy, (as a herald) to announce or convene publicly
#7
הַגִּ֣ידוּ
tell
properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to
#8
בְאַרְנ֔וֹן
ye it in Arnon
the arnon, a river east of the jordan, also its territory
#9
כִּ֥י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#10
שֻׁדַּ֖ד
is spoiled
properly, to be burly, i.e., (figuratively) powerful (passively, impregnable); by implication, to ravage
#11
מוֹאָֽב׃
Moab
moab, an incestuous son of lot; also his territory and descendants

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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