Jeremiah 31:29

Authorized King James Version

In those days they shall say no more, The fathers have eaten a sour grape, and the children's teeth are set on edge.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בַּיָּמִ֣ים
In those days
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
#2
הָהֵ֔ם
they (only used when emphatic)
#3
לֹא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#4
יֹאמְר֣וּ
they shall say
to say (used with great latitude)
#5
ע֔וֹד
properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially (with or without preposition), again, repeatedly, still, more
#6
אָב֖וֹת
H1
no more The fathers
father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application
#7
אָ֣כְלוּ
have eaten
to eat (literally or figuratively)
#8
בֹ֑סֶר
a sour grape
sour grape
#9
וְשִׁנֵּ֥י
teeth
a tooth (as sharp); specifically ivory; figuratively, a cliff
#10
בָנִ֖ים
and the children's
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#11
תִּקְהֶֽינָה׃
are set on edge
to be dull

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Jeremiah. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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