Jeremiah 17:11

Authorized King James Version

As the partridge sitteth on eggs, and hatcheth them not; so he that getteth riches, and not by right, shall leave them in the midst of his days, and at his end shall be a fool.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
קֹרֵ֤א
As the partridge
a caller, i.e., partridge (from its cry)
#2
דָגַר֙
sitteth
to brood over eggs or young
#3
וְלֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#4
יָלָ֔ד
on eggs and hatcheth
to bear young; causatively, to beget; medically, to act as midwife; specifically, to show lineage
#5
עֹ֥שֶׂה
them not so he that getteth
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#6
עֹ֖שֶׁר
riches
wealth
#7
וְלֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#8
בְמִשְׁפָּ֑ט
and not by right
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
#9
בַּחֲצִ֤י
them in the midst
the half or middle
#10
יָמָו֙
of his days
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
#11
יַעַזְבֶ֔נּוּ
shall leave
to loosen, i.e., relinquish, permit, etc
#12
וּבְאַחֲרִית֖וֹ
and at his end
the last or end, hence, the future; also posterity
#13
יִהְיֶ֥ה
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#14
נָבָֽל׃
shall be a fool
stupid; wicked (especially impious)

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People