Zephaniah 3:18

Authorized King James Version

I will gather them that are sorrowful for the solemn assembly, who are of thee, to whom the reproach of it was a burden.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
נוּגֵ֧י
H3013
them that are sorrowful
to grieve
#2
מִמּוֹעֵ֛ד
H4150
for the solemn assembly
properly, an appointment, i.e., a fixed time or season; specifically, a festival; conventionally a year; by implication, an assembly (as convened for
#3
אָסַ֖פְתִּי
H622
I will gather
to gather for any purpose; hence, to receive, take away, i.e., remove (destroy, leave behind, put up, restore, etc.)
#4
מִמֵּ֣ךְ
H4480
properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses
#5
הָי֑וּ
H1961
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#6
מַשְׂאֵ֥ת
H4864
of it was a burden
properly, (abstractly) a raising (as of the hands in prayer), or rising (of flame); figuratively, an utterance; concretely, a beacon (as raised); a pr
#7
עָלֶ֖יהָ
H5921
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#8
חֶרְפָּֽה׃
H2781
who are of thee to whom the reproach
contumely, disgrace, the pudenda

Analysis

Within the broader context of Zephaniah, 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 Zephaniah.

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 Zephaniah Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection