Jeremiah 52:21

Authorized King James Version

And concerning the pillars, the height of one pillar was eighteen cubits; and a fillet of twelve cubits did compass it; and the thickness thereof was four fingers: it was hollow.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הָעַמֻּ֣ד
And concerning the pillars
a column (as standing); also a stand, i.e., platform
#2
שְׁמֹנֶ֨ה
was eighteen
a cardinal number, eight (as if a surplus above the 'perfect' seven); also (as ordinal) eighth
#3
עֶשְׂרֵ֤ה
ten (only in combination), i.e., -teen; also (ordinal) -teenth
#4
אַמָּ֖ה
cubits
properly, a mother (i.e., unit of measure, or the fore-arm (below the elbow), i.e., a cubit; also a door-base (as a bond of the entrance)
#5
קוֹמַה֙
the height
height
#6
הָעַמֻּ֣ד
And concerning the pillars
a column (as standing); also a stand, i.e., platform
#7
הָאֶחָ֔ד
of one
properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first
#8
וְח֛וּט
and a fillet
a string; by implication, a measuring tape
#9
שְׁתֵּים
of twelve
two; also (as ordinal) twofold
#10
עֶשְׂרֵ֥ה
ten (only in combination), i.e., -teen; also (ordinal) -teenth
#11
אַמָּ֖ה
cubits
properly, a mother (i.e., unit of measure, or the fore-arm (below the elbow), i.e., a cubit; also a door-base (as a bond of the entrance)
#12
יְסֻבֶּ֑נּוּ
did compass
to revolve, surround, or border; used in various applications, literally and figuratively
#13
וְעָבְי֛וֹ
it and the thickness
density, i.e., depth or width
#14
אַרְבַּ֥ע
thereof was four
four
#15
אַצְבָּע֖וֹת
fingers
something to sieze with, i.e., a finger; by analogy, a toe
#16
נָבֽוּב׃
it was hollow
to pierce; to be hollow, or (figuratively) foolish

Analysis

Within the broader context of Jeremiah, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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