Jeremiah 44:5

Authorized King James Version

But they hearkened not, nor inclined their ear to turn from their wickedness, to burn no incense unto other gods.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְלֹ֤א

H3808

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

שָֽׁמְעוּ֙

H8085

But they hearkened

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

וְלֹא

H3808

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

הִטּ֣וּ

H5186

not nor inclined

to stretch or spread out; by implication, to bend away (including moral deflection); used in a great variety of application (as follows)

אֶת

H853

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

אָזְנָ֔ם

H241

their ear

broadness. i.e., (concrete) the ear (from its form in man)

לָשׁ֖וּב

H7725

to turn

to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

מֵרָֽעָתָ֑ם

H7451

from their wickedness

bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)

לְבִלְתִּ֥י

H1115

properly, a failure of, i.e., (used only as a negative particle, usually with a prepositional prefix) not, except, without, unless, besides, because n

#10

קַטֵּ֖ר

H6999

to burn no incense

to smoke, i.e., turn into fragrance by fire (especially as an act of worship)

#11

לֵאלֹהִ֥ים

H430

gods

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

#12

אֲחֵרִֽים׃

H312

unto other

properly, hinder; generally, next, other, etc

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

How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?

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