Jeremiah 51:17

Authorized King James Version

Every man is brutish by his knowledge; every founder is confounded by the graven image: for his molten image is falsehood, and there is no breath in them.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
נִבְעַ֤ר
is brutish
to be(-come) brutish
#2
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#3
אָדָם֙
Every man
ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)
#4
מִדַּ֔עַת
by his knowledge
knowledge
#5
הֹבִ֥ישׁ
is confounded
to be ashamed, confused or disappointed; also (as failing) to dry up (as water) or wither (as herbage)
#6
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#7
צֹרֵ֖ף
every founder
to fuse (metal), i.e., refine (literally or figuratively)
#8
מִפָּ֑סֶל
by the graven image
an idol
#9
כִּ֛י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#10
שֶׁ֥קֶר
is falsehood
an untruth; by implication, a sham (often adverbial)
#11
נִסְכּ֖וֹ
for his molten image
a libation; also a cast idol
#12
וְלֹא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#13
ר֥וּחַ
and there is no breath
wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the
#14
בָּֽם׃
H0

Analysis

Within the broader context of Jeremiah, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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