Zechariah 8:11

Authorized King James Version

But now I will not be unto the residue of this people as in the former days, saith the LORD of hosts.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְעַתָּ֗ה
at this time, whether adverb, conjunction or expletive
#2
לֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#3
כַיָּמִ֤ים
days
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
#4
הָרִֽאשֹׁנִים֙
as in the former
first, in place, time or rank (as adjective or noun)
#5
אֲנִ֔י
i
#6
לִשְׁאֵרִ֖ית
But now I will not be unto the residue
a remainder or residual (surviving, final) portion
#7
הָעָ֣ם
of this people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#8
הַזֶּ֑ה
the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that
#9
נְאֻ֖ם
saith
an oracle
#10
יְהוָ֥ה
the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#11
צְבָאֽוֹת׃
of hosts
a mass of persons (or figuratively, things), especially reg. organized for war (an army); by implication, a campaign, literally or figuratively (speci

Analysis

Within the broader context of Zechariah, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Zechariah Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection