Definition: For the hurt of the daughter of my people am I hurt; I am black; astonishment hath taken hold on me.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this difficult passage from Jeremiah 8:21. It’s a really powerful and poignant verse, and it speaks to a deep sense of sorrow and despair. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Core of the Verse: “For the hurt of the daughter of my people am I hurt; I am black; astonishment hath taken hold on me.” What it Means – Explained Piece by Piece: "For the hurt of the daughter of my people..." : This immediately tells us who Jeremiah is speaking about. He’s lamenting for the suffering of a specific group of people – his people, specifically the Israelites in ancient Judah. It's a very personal and significant focus. "...am I black?" : This is where it gets complex. “Black” isn’t just a color; it refers to a racial identity . It signifies a deep sense of shame, isolation, and being marked by a difficult past. Jeremiah is saying he feels deeply ashamed of his heritage, particularly because of the perceived stain of his lineage. "...astonishment hath taken hold on me." : This is the most striking part. "Astonishment" means a sudden, overwhelming feeling of surprise or disbelief. It suggests that something profoundly bad has happened to him – perhaps a terrible act, a devastating loss, or a profound injustice. It’s not just sadness; it's a deep shock and disorientation. The Overall Meaning & Context: Jeremiah was a prophet who wrote during a time of great political turmoil and spiritual crisis in ancient Judah. He felt deeply burdened by his own heritage and the perceived sins of his ancestors. This verse expresses a raw, intense emotional response to a past injustice – possibly the loss of a child or some other significant tragedy. It’s a moment of profound despair and self-doubt. Important Note: It's crucial to understand this passage within its historical context. The Hebrew word "black" was used in a way that indicated a specific racial identity, and Jeremiah was wrestling with the implications of his lineage. Why it’s Significant: This verse is often interpreted as a reflection on the consequences of inherited sin and the burden of one's past. It highlights the importance of acknowledging and confronting difficult truths about our heritage and seeking forgiveness for past wrongs. It speaks to the struggle between shame, responsibility, and hope. Resources if you want to delve deeper: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/138/138-21](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/138/138-21) - This provides a good overview of the text and its historical context. Wikipedia – Jeremiah 8:21: [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeremiah_8:21](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeremiah_8:21) - A reliable source for detailed explanation of the verse's meaning and history. Do you want me to explain a specific aspect of this verse in more detail, or perhaps discuss its connection to other biblical stories?