Lamentations 4:7

Authorized King James Version

Her Nazarites were purer than snow, they were whiter than milk, they were more ruddy in body than rubies, their polishing was of sapphire:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
זַכּ֤וּ
were purer
to be transparent or clean (phys. or morally)
#2
נְזִירֶ֙יהָ֙
Her Nazarites
separate, i.e., consecrated (as prince, a nazirite); hence (figuratively from the latter) an unpruned vine (like an unshorn nazirite)
#3
מִשֶּׁ֔לֶג
than snow
snow (probably from its whiteness)
#4
צַח֖וּ
they were whiter
to glare, i.e., be dazzling white
#5
מֵחָלָ֑ב
than milk
milk (as the richness of kine)
#6
אָ֤דְמוּ
they were more ruddy
to show blood (in the face), i.e., flush or turn rosy
#7
עֶ֙צֶם֙
in body
a bone (as strong); by extension, the body; figuratively, the substance, i.e., (as pron.) selfsame
#8
מִפְּנִינִ֔ים
than rubies
ruby
#9
סַפִּ֖יר
was of sapphire
a gem (perhaps used for scratching other substances), probably the sapphire
#10
גִּזְרָתָֽם׃
their polishing
the figure or person (as if cut out); also an inclosure (as separated)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Lamentations. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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