Jeremiah 11:21

Authorized King James Version

Therefore thus saith the LORD of the men of Anathoth, that seek thy life, saying, Prophesy not in the name of the LORD, that thou die not by our hand:

Word-by-Word Analysis

לָכֵ֗ן

H3651

properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner

כֹּֽה

H3541

properly, like this, i.e., by implication, (of manner) thus (or so); also (of place) here (or hither); or (of time) now

לֵאמֹ֑ר

H559

Therefore thus saith

to say (used with great latitude)

יְהוָ֔ה

H3068

of the LORD

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

עַל

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

אַנְשֵׁ֣י

H376

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

עֲנָת֔וֹת

H6068

of Anathoth

anathoth, the name of two israelites, also of a place in pal

הַֽמְבַקְשִׁ֥ים

H1245

that seek

to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after

אֶֽת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

#10

נַפְשְׁךָ֖

H5315

thy life

properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment

#11

לֵאמֹ֑ר

H559

Therefore thus saith

to say (used with great latitude)

#12

לֹ֤א

H3808

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

#13

תִנָּבֵא֙

H5012

Prophesy

to prophesy, i.e., speak (or sing) by inspiration (in prediction or simple discourse)

#14

בְּשֵׁ֣ם

H8034

not in the name

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

#15

יְהוָ֔ה

H3068

of the LORD

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

#16

וְלֹ֥א

H3808

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

#17

תָמ֖וּת

H4191

that thou die

to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill

#18

בְּיָדֵֽנוּ׃

H3027

not by our hand

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

Analysis

Within the broader context of Jeremiah, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of life connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about life, 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 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 Jeremiah Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes life in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on life address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How might the original audience's understanding of life differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does this verse's literary context within Jeremiah chapter 11 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

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