Jeremiah 5:2

Authorized King James Version

And though they say, The LORD liveth; surely they swear falsely.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְאִ֥ם
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
#2
חַי
liveth
alive; hence, raw (flesh); fresh (plant, water, year), strong; also (as noun, especially in the feminine singular and masculine plural) life (or livin
#3
יְהוָֹ֖ה
The LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#4
יֹאמֵ֑רוּ
And though they say
to say (used with great latitude)
#5
לָכֵ֥ן
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
#6
לַשֶּׁ֖קֶר
falsely
an untruth; by implication, a sham (often adverbial)
#7
יִשָּׁבֵֽעוּ׃
surely they swear
to seven oneself, i.e., swear (as if by repeating a declaration seven times)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Jeremiah. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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