Jeremiah 8:9

Authorized King James Version

The wise men are ashamed, they are dismayed and taken: lo, they have rejected the word of the LORD; and what wisdom is in them?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הֹבִ֣ישׁוּ
properly, to pale, i.e., by implication to be ashamed; also (by implication) to be disappointed or delayed
#2
חֲכָמִ֔ים
The wise
wise, (i.e., intelligent, skilful or artful)
#3
חַ֖תּוּ
they are dismayed
properly, to prostrate; hence, to break down, either (literally) by violence, or (figuratively) by confusion and fear
#4
וַיִּלָּכֵ֑דוּ
and taken
to catch (in a net, trap or pit); generally, to capture or occupy; also to choose (by lot); figuratively, to cohere
#5
הִנֵּ֤ה
lo!
#6
בִדְבַר
the word
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#7
יְהוָה֙
of the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#8
מָאָ֔סוּ
lo they have rejected
to spurn; also (intransitively) to disappear
#9
וְחָכְמַ֥ת
and what wisdom
wisdom (in a good sense)
#10
מֶ֖ה
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
#11
לָהֶֽם׃
H0

Analysis

Within the broader context of Jeremiah, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of wisdom connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about wisdom, 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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