Zechariah 8:2

Authorized King James Version

Thus saith the LORD of hosts; I was jealous for Zion with great jealousy, and I was jealous for her with great fury.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כֹּ֤ה
properly, like this, i.e., by implication, (of manner) thus (or so); also (of place) here (or hither); or (of time) now
#2
אָמַר֙
Thus saith
to say (used with great latitude)
#3
יְהוָ֣ה
the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#4
צְבָא֔וֹת
of hosts
a mass of persons (or figuratively, things), especially reg. organized for war (an army); by implication, a campaign, literally or figuratively (speci
#5
קִנֵּ֥אתִי
I was jealous
to be (causatively, make) zealous, i.e., (in a bad sense) jealous or envious
#6
לְצִיּ֖וֹן
for Zion
tsijon (as a permanent capital), a mountain of jerusalem
#7
קִנְאָ֣ה
jealousy
jealousy or envy
#8
גְדוֹלָ֖ה
for her with great
great (in any sense); hence, older; also insolent
#9
וְחֵמָ֥ה
fury
heat; figuratively, anger, poison (from its fever)
#10
גְדוֹלָ֖ה
for her with great
great (in any sense); hence, older; also insolent
#11
קִנֵּ֥אתִי
I was jealous
to be (causatively, make) zealous, i.e., (in a bad sense) jealous or envious
#12
לָֽהּ׃
H0

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