Jeremiah 10:16

Authorized King James Version

The portion of Jacob is not like them: for he is the former of all things; and Israel is the rod of his inheritance: The LORD of hosts is his name.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לֹֽא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

כְאֵ֜לֶּה

H428

these or those

חֵ֣לֶק

H2506

The portion

properly, smoothness (of the tongue)

יַעֲקֹ֗ב

H3290

of Jacob

jaakob, the israelitish patriarch

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

יוֹצֵ֤ר

H3335

is not like them for he is the former

to mould into a form; especially as a potter; figuratively, to determine (i.e., form a resolution)

הַכֹּל֙

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

ה֔וּא

H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

וְיִ֨שְׂרָאֵ֔ל

H3478

of all things and Israel

he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity

#10

שֵׁ֖בֶט

H7626

is the rod

a scion, i.e., (literally) a stick (for punishing, writing, fighting, ruling, walking, etc.) or (figuratively) a clan

#11

נַֽחֲלָת֑וֹ

H5159

of his inheritance

properly, something inherited, i.e., (abstractly) occupancy, or (concretely) an heirloom; generally an estate, patrimony or portion

#12

יְהוָ֥ה

H3068

The LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

#13

צְבָא֖וֹת

H6635

of hosts

a mass of persons (or figuratively, things), especially reg. organized for war (an army); by implication, a campaign, literally or figuratively (speci

#14

שְׁמֽוֹ׃

H8034

is his name

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

Analysis

Within the broader context of Jeremiah, 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 Jeremiah.

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 sovereignty. 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 sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
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?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?

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