Jeremiah 14:7

Authorized King James Version

O LORD, though our iniquities testify against us, do thou it for thy name's sake: for our backslidings are many; we have sinned against thee.

Word-by-Word Analysis

אִם

H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

עֲוֹנֵ֙ינוּ֙

H5771

though our iniquities

perversity, i.e., (moral) evil

עָ֣נוּ

H6030

testify

properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,

בָ֔נוּ

יְהוָ֕ה

H3068

O LORD

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

עֲשֵׂ֖ה

H6213

against us do

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

לְמַ֣עַן

H4616

properly, heed, i.e., purpose; used only adverbially, on account of (as a motive or an aim), teleologically, in order that

שְׁמֶ֑ךָ

H8034

thou it for thy name's

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

כִּֽי

H3588

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

#10

רַבּ֥וּ

H7231

are many

properly, to cast together , i.e., increase, especially in number; to multiply by the myriad

#11

מְשׁוּבֹתֵ֖ינוּ

H4878

sake for our backslidings

apostasy

#12

לְךָ֥

#13

חָטָֽאנוּ׃

H2398

we have sinned

properly, to miss; hence (figuratively and generally) to sin; by inference, to forfeit, lack, expiate, repent, (causatively) lead astray, condemn

Analysis

Within the broader context of Jeremiah, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

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?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?

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