Jeremiah 23:18

Authorized King James Version

For who hath stood in the counsel of the LORD, and hath perceived and heard his word? who hath marked his word, and heard it?

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּ֣י

H3588

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

מִ֤י

H4310

who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix

עָמַד֙

H5975

For who hath stood

to stand, in various relations (literal and figurative, intransitive and transitive)

בְּס֣וֹד

H5475

in the counsel

a session, i.e., company of persons (in close deliberation); by implication, intimacy, consultation, a secret

יְהוָ֔ה

H3068

of the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

וְיֵ֖רֶא

H7200

and hath perceived

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

וַיִּשְׁמָֽע׃

H8085

and heard

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

אֶת

H853

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

דְּבָר֖יֹ

H1697

his word

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

#10

מִֽי

H4310

who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix

#11

הִקְשִׁ֥יב

H7181

who hath marked

to prick up the ears, i.e., hearken

#12

דְּבָר֖יֹ

H1697

his word

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

#13

וַיִּשְׁמָֽע׃

H8085

and heard

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

Analysis

Within the broader context of Jeremiah, this passage highlights salvation through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. 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

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

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?
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?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?

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