Jeremiah 2:17

Authorized King James Version

Hast thou not procured this unto thyself, in that thou hast forsaken the LORD thy God, when he led thee by the way?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הֲלוֹא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#2
זֹ֖את
this (often used adverb)
#3
תַּעֲשֶׂה
Hast thou not procured
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#4
לָּ֑ךְ
H0
#5
עָזְבֵךְ֙
this unto thyself in that thou hast forsaken
to loosen, i.e., relinquish, permit, etc
#6
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#7
יְהוָ֣ה
the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#8
אֱלֹהַ֔יִךְ
thy God
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
#9
בְּעֵ֖ת
when
time, especially (adverb with preposition) now, when, etc
#10
מוֹלִכֵ֥ךְ
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#11
בַּדָּֽרֶךְ׃
thee by the way
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb

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 sovereignty 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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