Jeremiah 5:26

Authorized King James Version

For among my people are found wicked men: they lay wait, as he that setteth snares; they set a trap, they catch men.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כִּי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
נִמְצְא֥וּ
are found
properly, to come forth to, i.e., appear or exist; transitively, to attain, i.e., find or acquire; figuratively, to occur, meet or be present
#3
בְעַמִּ֖י
For among my people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#4
רְשָׁעִ֑ים
wicked
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
#5
יָשׁוּר֙
men they lay wait
to spy out, i.e., (generally) survey, (for evil) lurk for, (for good) care for
#6
כְּשַׁ֣ךְ
as he that setteth
to weave (i.e., lay) a trap; figuratively, (through the idea of secreting) to allay (passions; physically, abate a flood)
#7
יְקוּשִׁ֔ים
snares
properly, entangled, i.e., by implication (intransitively) a snare, or (transitive) a snarer
#8
הִצִּ֥יבוּ
they set
to station, in various applications (literally or figuratively)
#9
מַשְׁחִ֖ית
a trap
destructive, i.e., (as noun) destruction, literally (specifically a snare) or figuratively (corruption)
#10
אֲנָשִׁ֥ים
men
properly, a mortal (and thus differing from the more dignified h0120); hence, a man in general (singly or collectively)
#11
יִלְכֹּֽדוּ׃
they catch
to catch (in a net, trap or pit); generally, to capture or occupy; also to choose (by lot); figuratively, to cohere

Analysis

Within the broader context of Jeremiah, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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 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 covenant community. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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