Jeremiah 49:23

Authorized King James Version

Concerning Damascus. Hamath is confounded, and Arpad: for they have heard evil tidings: they are fainthearted; there is sorrow on the sea; it cannot be quiet.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לְדַמֶּ֗שֶׂק
Concerning Damascus
damascus, a city of syria
#2
בּ֤וֹשָֽׁה
is confounded
properly, to pale, i.e., by implication to be ashamed; also (by implication) to be disappointed or delayed
#3
חֲמָת֙
Hamath
chamath, a place in syria
#4
וְאַרְפָּ֔ד
and Arpad
arpad, a place in syria
#5
כִּי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#6
שְׁמֻעָ֥ה
tidings
something heard, i.e., an announcement
#7
רָעָ֛ה
evil
bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)
#8
שָׁמְע֖וּ
for they have heard
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
#9
נָמֹ֑גוּ
they are fainthearted
to melt, i.e., literally (to soften, flow down, disappear), or figuratively (to fear, faint)
#10
בַּיָּ֣ם
on the sea
a sea (as breaking in noisy surf) or large body of water; specifically (with the article), the mediterranean sea; sometimes a large river, or an artif
#11
דְּאָגָ֔ה
there is sorrow
anxiety
#12
הַשְׁקֵ֖ט
be quiet
to repose (usually figurative)
#13
לֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#14
יוּכָֽל׃
it cannot
to be able, literally (can, could) or morally (may, might)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Jeremiah. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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