Jeremiah 23:30

Authorized King James Version

Therefore, behold, I am against the prophets, saith the LORD, that steal my words every one from his neighbour.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לָכֵ֛ן
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
#2
הִנְנִ֥י
lo!; also (as expressing surprise) if
#3
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#4
הַנְּבִאִ֖ים
Therefore behold I am against the prophets
a prophet or (generally) inspired man
#5
נְאֻם
saith
an oracle
#6
יְהוָ֑ה
the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#7
מְגַנְּבֵ֣י
that steal
to thieve (literally or figuratively); by implication, to deceive
#8
דְבָרַ֔י
my words
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#9
אִ֖ישׁ
every one
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#10
מֵאֵ֥ת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#11
רֵעֵֽהוּ׃
from his neighbour
an associate (more or less close)

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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