Jeremiah 2:28

Authorized King James Version

But where are thy gods that thou hast made thee? let them arise, if they can save thee in the time of thy trouble: for according to the number of thy cities are thy gods, O Judah.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְאַיֵּ֤ה

H346

where?

אֱלֹהֶ֖יךָ

H430

But where are thy gods

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

אֲשֶׁ֣ר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

עָשִׂ֣יתָ

H6213

that thou hast made

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

לָּ֔ךְ

יָק֕וּמוּ

H6965

thee let them arise

to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)

אִם

H518

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

יוֹשִׁיע֖וּךָ

H3467

if they can save

properly, to be open, wide or free, i.e., (by implication) to be safe; causatively, to free or succor

בְּעֵ֣ת

H6256

thee in the time

time, especially (adverb with preposition) now, when, etc

#10

רָעָתֶ֑ךָ

H7451

of thy trouble

bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)

#11

כִּ֚י

H3588

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

#12

מִסְפַּ֣ר

H4557

for according to the number

a number, definite (arithmetical) or indefinite (large, innumerable; small, a few); also (abstractly) narration

#13

עָרֶ֔יךָ

H5892

of thy cities

a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)

#14

הָי֥וּ

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

#15

אֱלֹהֶ֖יךָ

H430

But where are thy gods

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

#16

יְהוּדָֽה׃

H3063

O Judah

jehudah (or judah), the name of five israelites; also of the tribe descended from the first, and of its territory

Analysis

Within the broader context of Jeremiah, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
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?
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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