Jeremiah 7:13

Authorized King James Version

And now, because ye have done all these works, saith the LORD, and I spake unto you, rising up early and speaking, but ye heard not; and I called you, but ye answered not;

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְעַתָּ֗ה

H6258

at this time, whether adverb, conjunction or expletive

יַ֧עַן

H3282

properly, heed; by implication, purpose (sake or account); used adverbially to indicate the reason or cause

עֲשׂוֹתְכֶ֛ם

H6213

And now because ye have done

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

אֶת

H853

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

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

הַמַּֽעֲשִׂ֥ים

H4639

all these works

an action (good or bad); generally, a transaction; abstractly, activity; by implication, a product (specifically, a poem) or (generally) property

הָאֵ֖לֶּה

H428

these or those

נְאֻם

H5002

saith

an oracle

יְהוָ֑ה

H3068

the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

#10

וְדַבֵּר֙

H1696

and I spake

perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue

#11

אֲלֵיכֶ֜ם

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

#12

הַשְׁכֵּ֤ם

H7925

unto you rising up early

literally, to load up (on the back of man or beast), i.e., to start early in the morning

#13

וְדַבֵּר֙

H1696

and I spake

perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue

#14

וְלֹ֣א

H3808

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

#15

שְׁמַעְתֶּ֔ם

H8085

but ye heard

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

#16

וָאֶקְרָ֥א

H7121

not and I called

to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)

#17

אֶתְכֶ֖ם

H853

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

#18

וְלֹ֥א

H3808

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

#19

עֲנִיתֶֽם׃

H6030

you but ye answered

properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,

Analysis

Within the broader context of Jeremiah, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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

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

In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does this verse's literary context within Jeremiah chapter 7 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People

Jeremiah