Zechariah 11:14

Authorized King James Version

Then I cut asunder mine other staff, even Bands, that I might break the brotherhood between Judah and Israel.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וָֽאֶגְדַּע֙
Then I cut asunder
to fell a tree; generally, to destroy anything
#2
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#3
מַקְלִ֣י
staff
a shoot, i.e., stick (with leaves on, or for walking, striking, guiding, divining)
#4
הַשֵּׁנִ֔י
mine other
properly, double, i.e., second; also adverbially, again
#5
אֵ֖ת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#6
הַחֹֽבְלִ֑ים
ruin
#7
לְהָפֵר֙
that I might break
to break up (usually figuratively), i.e., to violate, frustrate
#8
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#9
הָֽאַחֲוָ֔ה
the brotherhood
fraternity
#10
בֵּ֥ין
between (repeated before each noun, often with other particles); also as a conjunction, either...or
#11
יְהוּדָ֖ה
between Judah
jehudah (or judah), the name of five israelites; also of the tribe descended from the first, and of its territory
#12
וּבֵ֥ין
between (repeated before each noun, often with other particles); also as a conjunction, either...or
#13
יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃
and Israel
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity

Analysis

Within the broader context of Zechariah, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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 Zechariah.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection