Jeremiah 7:17

Authorized King James Version

Seest thou not what they do in the cities of Judah and in the streets of Jerusalem?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הַֽאֵינְךָ֣
a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle
#2
רֹאֶ֔ה
Seest
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#3
מָ֛ה
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
#4
הֵ֥מָּה
they (only used when emphatic)
#5
עֹשִׂ֖ים
thou not what they do
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#6
בְּעָרֵ֣י
in the cities
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#7
יְהוּדָ֑ה
of Judah
jehudah (or judah), the name of five israelites; also of the tribe descended from the first, and of its territory
#8
וּבְחֻצ֖וֹת
and in the streets
properly, separate by a wall, i.e., outside, outdoors
#9
יְרוּשָׁלִָֽם׃
of Jerusalem
jerushalaim or jerushalem, the capital city of palestine

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

Related Resources

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

People