Jeremiah 14:12

Authorized King James Version

When they fast, I will not hear their cry; and when they offer burnt offering and an oblation, I will not accept them: but I will consume them by the sword, and by the famine, and by the pestilence.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּ֣י

H3588

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

יָצֻ֗מוּ

H6684

When they fast

to cover over (the mouth), i.e., to fast

אֵינֶ֤נִּי

H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle

שֹׁמֵ֙עַ֙

H8085

I will not hear

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

אֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

רִנָּתָ֔ם

H7440

their cry

properly, a creaking (or shrill sound), i.e., shout (of joy or grief)

וְכִ֧י

H3588

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

יַעֲל֛וּ

H5927

and when they offer

to ascend, intransitively (be high) or actively (mount); used in a great variety of senses, primary and secondary, literal and figurative

עֹלָ֥ה

H5930

burnt offering

a step or (collectively, stairs, as ascending); usually a holocaust (as going up in smoke)

#10

וּמִנְחָ֖ה

H4503

and an oblation

a donation; euphemistically, tribute; specifically a sacrificial offering (usually bloodless and voluntary)

#11

אֵינֶ֣נִּי

H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle

#12

רֹצָ֑ם

H7521

I will not accept

to be pleased with; specifically, to satisfy a debt

#13

כִּ֗י

H3588

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

#14

בַּחֶ֙רֶב֙

H2719

them by the sword

drought; also a cutting instrument (from its destructive effect), as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement

#15

וּבָרָעָ֣ב

H7458

and by the famine

hunger (more or less extensive)

#16

וּבַדֶּ֔בֶר

H1698

and by the pestilence

a pestilence

#17

אָנֹכִ֖י

H595

#18

מְכַלֶּ֥ה

H3615

them but I will consume

to end, whether intransitive (to cease, be finished, perish) or transitive (to complete, prepare, consume)

#19

אוֹתָֽם׃

H853

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

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Jeremiah. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does this verse's literary context within Jeremiah chapter 14 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?

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