Jeremiah 18:15

Authorized King James Version

Because my people hath forgotten me, they have burned incense to vanity, and they have caused them to stumble in their ways from the ancient paths, to walk in paths, in a way not cast up;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
שְׁכֵחֻ֥נִי
hath forgotten
to mislay, i.e., to be oblivious of, from want of memory or attention
#3
עַמִּ֖י
Because my people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#4
לַשָּׁ֣וְא
to vanity
evil (as destructive), literally (ruin) or morally (especially guile); figuratively idolatry (as false, subjective), uselessness (as deceptive, object
#5
יְקַטֵּ֑רוּ
me they have burned incense
to smoke, i.e., turn into fragrance by fire (especially as an act of worship)
#6
וַיַּכְשִׁל֤וּם
and they have caused them to stumble
to totter or waver (through weakness of the legs, especially the ankle); by implication, to falter, stumble, faint or fall
#7
דֶּ֖רֶךְ
in a way
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
#8
שְׁבִילֵ֣י
paths
a track or passage-way (as if flowing along)
#9
עוֹלָ֔ם
from the ancient
properly, concealed, i.e., the vanishing point; generally, time out of mind (past or future), i.e., (practically) eternity; frequentatively, adverbial
#10
לָלֶ֣כֶת
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#11
נְתִיב֔וֹת
in paths
a (beaten) track
#12
דֶּ֖רֶךְ
in a way
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
#13
לֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#14
סְלוּלָֽה׃
not cast up
to mound up (especially a turnpike); figurative, to exalt; reflexively, to oppose (as by a dam)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Jeremiah, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, 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

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