Joel 3:10

Authorized King James Version

Beat your plowshares into swords, and your pruninghooks into spears: let the weak say, I am strong.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כֹּ֤תּוּ
Beat
to bruise or violently strike
#2
אִתֵּיכֶם֙
your plowshares
a hoe or other digging implement
#3
לַֽחֲרָב֔וֹת
into swords
drought; also a cutting instrument (from its destructive effect), as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement
#4
וּמַזְמְרֹֽתֵיכֶ֖ם
and your pruninghooks
a pruning-knife
#5
לִרְמָחִ֑ים
into spears
a lance (as thrown); especially the iron point
#6
הַֽחַלָּ֔שׁ
let the weak
frail
#7
יֹאמַ֖ר
say
to say (used with great latitude)
#8
גִּבּ֥וֹר
I am strong
powerful; by implication, warrior, tyrant
#9
אָֽנִי׃
i

Analysis

Within the broader context of Joel, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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 Joel.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection