Zechariah 7:11

Authorized King James Version

But they refused to hearken, and pulled away the shoulder, and stopped their ears, that they should not hear.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיְמָאֲנ֣וּ

H3985

But they refused

to refuse

לְהַקְשִׁ֔יב

H7181

to hearken

to prick up the ears, i.e., hearken

וַיִּתְּנ֥וּ

H5414

and pulled away

to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)

כָתֵ֖ף

H3802

the shoulder

the shoulder (proper, i.e., upper end of the arm; as being the spot where the garments hang); figuratively, side-piece or lateral projection of anythi

סֹרָ֑רֶת

H5637

to turn away, i.e., (morally) be refractory

וְאָזְנֵיהֶ֖ם

H241

their ears

broadness. i.e., (concrete) the ear (from its form in man)

הִכְבִּ֥ידוּ

H3513

and stopped

to be heavy, i.e., in a bad sense (burdensome, severe, dull) or in a good sense (numerous, rich, honorable); causatively, to make weighty (in the same

מִשְּׁמֽוֹעַ׃

H8085

that they should not hear

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Zechariah, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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

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

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?