Jeremiah 8:21

Authorized King James Version

For the hurt of the daughter of my people am I hurt; I am black; astonishment hath taken hold on me.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#2
שֶׁ֥בֶר
For the hurt
a fracture, figuratively, ruin; specifically, a solution (of a dream)
#3
בַּת
of the daughter
a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)
#4
עַמִּ֖י
of my people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#5
הָשְׁבָּ֑רְתִּי
am I hurt
to burst (literally or figuratively)
#6
קָדַ֕רְתִּי
I am black
to be ashy, i.e., dark-colored; by implication, to mourn (in sackcloth or sordid garments)
#7
שַׁמָּ֖ה
astonishment
ruin; by implication, consternation
#8
הֶחֱזִקָֽתְנִי׃
hath taken hold
to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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