Zechariah 11:10

Authorized King James Version

And I took my staff, even Beauty, and cut it asunder, that I might break my covenant which I had made with all the people.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וָאֶקַּ֤ח

H3947

And I took

to take (in the widest variety of applications)

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

מַקְלִי֙

H4731

my staff

a shoot, i.e., stick (with leaves on, or for walking, striking, guiding, divining)

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

נֹ֔עַם

H5278

even Beauty

agreeableness, i.e., delight, suitableness, splendor or grace

וָאֶגְדַּ֖ע

H1438

and cut it asunder

to fell a tree; generally, to destroy anything

אֹת֑וֹ

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

לְהָפֵיר֙

H6565

that I might break

to break up (usually figuratively), i.e., to violate, frustrate

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

#10

בְּרִיתִ֔י

H1285

my covenant

a compact (because made by passing between pieces of flesh)

#11

אֲשֶׁ֥ר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

#12

כָּרַ֖תִּי

H3772

which I had made

to cut (off, down or asunder); by implication, to destroy or consume; specifically, to covenant (i.e., make an alliance or bargain, originally by cutt

#13

אֶת

H854

properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc

#14

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

#15

הָעַמִּֽים׃

H5971

with all the people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

Analysis

The covenant theme here intersects with God's relationship with His people from Abraham through the new covenant. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of evolution from creation covenant through Abrahamic, Mosaic, Davidic, to new covenant. The phrase emphasizing covenant contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's relational commitment from Noah to the new covenant.

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 covenant. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
In what ways does understanding covenant in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about covenant?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on covenant address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?