Jeremiah 17:23

Authorized King James Version

But they obeyed not, neither inclined their ear, but made their neck stiff, that they might not hear, nor receive instruction.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְלֹ֣א

H3808

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

שְׁו֔מֹעַ

H8085

But they obeyed

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

וְלֹ֥א

H3808

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

הִטּ֖וּ

H5186

not neither inclined

to stretch or spread out; by implication, to bend away (including moral deflection); used in a great variety of application (as follows)

אֶת

H853

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

אָזְנָ֑ם

H241

their ear

broadness. i.e., (concrete) the ear (from its form in man)

וַיַּקְשׁוּ֙

H7185

stiff

properly, to be dense, i.e., tough or severe (in various applications)

אֶת

H853

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

עָרְפָּ֔ם

H6203

but made their neck

the nape or back of the neck (as declining); hence, the back generally (whether literal or figurative)

#10

לְבִלְתִּ֣י

H1115

properly, a failure of, i.e., (used only as a negative particle, usually with a prepositional prefix) not, except, without, unless, besides, because n

#11

שְׁו֔מֹעַ

H8085

But they obeyed

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

#12

וּלְבִלְתִּ֖י

H1115

properly, a failure of, i.e., (used only as a negative particle, usually with a prepositional prefix) not, except, without, unless, besides, because n

#13

קַ֥חַת

H3947

nor receive

to take (in the widest variety of applications)

#14

מוּסָֽר׃

H4148

instruction

properly, chastisement; figuratively, reproof, warning or instruction; also restraint

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
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 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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