Jeremiah 23:31

Authorized King James Version

Behold, I am against the prophets, saith the LORD, that use their tongues, and say, He saith.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הִנְנִ֥י
lo!; also (as expressing surprise) if
#2
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#3
הַנְּבִיאִ֖ם
Behold I am against the prophets
a prophet or (generally) inspired man
#4
נְאֻֽם׃
He saith
an oracle
#5
יְהוָ֑ה
the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#6
הַלֹּקְחִ֣ים
that use
to take (in the widest variety of applications)
#7
לְשׁוֹנָ֔ם
their tongues
the tongue (of man or animals), used literally (as the instrument of licking, eating, or speech), and figuratively (speech, an ingot, a fork of flame,
#8
וַֽיִּנְאֲמ֖וּ
and say
properly, to whisper, i.e., (by implication) to utter as an oracle
#9
נְאֻֽם׃
He saith
an oracle

Analysis

Within the broader context of Jeremiah, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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

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