Jeremiah 22:9

Authorized King James Version

Then they shall answer, Because they have forsaken the covenant of the LORD their God, and worshipped other gods, and served them.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְאָ֣מְר֔וּ
Then they shall answer
to say (used with great latitude)
#2
עַ֚ל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#3
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#4
עָֽזְב֔וּ
Because they have forsaken
to loosen, i.e., relinquish, permit, etc
#5
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#6
בְּרִ֥ית
the covenant
a compact (because made by passing between pieces of flesh)
#7
יְהוָ֖ה
of the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#8
לֵאלֹהִ֥ים
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
#9
וַיִּֽשְׁתַּחֲו֛וּ
and worshipped
to depress, i.e., prostrate (especially reflexive, in homage to royalty or god)
#10
לֵאלֹהִ֥ים
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
#11
אֲחֵרִ֖ים
other
properly, hinder; generally, next, other, etc
#12
וַיַּעַבְדֽוּם׃
and served
to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc

Analysis

Within the broader context of Jeremiah, this passage highlights covenant through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of covenant connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant, 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 literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of covenant 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 covenant in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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