Matthew 2:17
Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying,
Original Language Analysis
Τότε
Then
G5119
Τότε
Then
Strong's:
G5119
Word #:
1 of 9
the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)
ἐπληρώθη
was fulfilled
G4137
ἐπληρώθη
was fulfilled
Strong's:
G4137
Word #:
2 of 9
to make replete, i.e., (literally) to cram (a net), level up (a hollow), or (figuratively) to furnish (or imbue, diffuse, influence), satisfy, execute
τοῦ
that which
G3588
τοῦ
that which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ὑπὸ
by
G5259
ὑπὸ
by
Strong's:
G5259
Word #:
5 of 9
under, i.e., (with the genitive case) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative case) of place (whither (
τοῦ
that which
G3588
τοῦ
that which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Historical Context
Jeremiah 31:15 originally referenced the Babylonian exile's grief, when Israelites were led past Rachel's tomb into captivity. Matthew shows this pattern repeating in Herod's massacre, with both events ultimately pointing to the consolation found in Christ and the New Covenant.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this tragic event ultimately point to God's sovereign purposes of redemption?
- What comfort does the New Covenant (Jeremiah 31:31-34) provide in the face of suffering and injustice?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Matthew sees Jeremiah 31:15's prophecy fulfilled in the massacre, using a 'fuller sense' (sensus plenior) hermeneutic. Rachel, buried near Bethlehem, represents motherly grief over Israel's children. This fulfillment connects Christ's advent to Israel's entire history of suffering under judgment, yet the broader context of Jeremiah 31 promises restoration and the New Covenant—ultimately fulfilled in Christ.