Lamentations 3:34

Authorized King James Version

To crush under his feet all the prisoners of the earth,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לְדַכֵּא֙
To crush
to crumble; transitively, to bruise (literally or figuratively)
#2
תַּ֣חַת
the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, etc
#3
רַגְלָ֔יו
under his feet
a foot (as used in walking); by implication, a step; by euphemistically the pudenda
#4
כֹּ֖ל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#5
אֲסִ֥ירֵי
all the prisoners
bound, i.e., a captive
#6
אָֽרֶץ׃
of the earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Lamentations, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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 Lamentations.

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