Jeremiah 35:16

Authorized King James Version

Because the sons of Jonadab the son of Rechab have performed the commandment of their father, which he commanded them; but this people hath not hearkened unto me:

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

הֵקִ֗ימוּ

H6965

have performed

to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)

בֶּן

H1121

Because the sons

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

יְהוֹנָדָ֣ב

H3082

of Jonadab

jehonadab, the name of an israelite and of an arab

בֶּן

H1121

Because the sons

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

רֵכָ֔ב

H7394

of Rechab

rekab, the name of two arabs and of two israelites

אֶת

H853

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

מִצְוַ֥ת

H4687

the commandment

a command, whether human or divine (collectively, the law)

אֲבִיהֶ֖ם

of their father

father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application

#10

אֲשֶׁ֣ר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

#11

צִוָּ֑ם

H6680

which he commanded

(intensively) to constitute, enjoin

#12

וְהָעָ֣ם

H5971

them but this people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

#13

הַזֶּ֔ה

H2088

the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that

#14

לֹ֥א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#15

שָׁמְע֖וּ

H8085

hath not hearkened

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

#16

אֵלָֽי׃

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

Analysis

Within the broader context of Jeremiah, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, 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 salvation 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 community in this particular way.

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?
In what ways does understanding covenant community in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?

Related Resources

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Jeremiah