Jeremiah 7:26

Authorized King James Version

Yet they hearkened not unto me, nor inclined their ear, but hardened their neck: they did worse than their fathers.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְל֤וֹא

H3808

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

שָׁמְעוּ֙

H8085

Yet they hearkened

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

אֵלַ֔י

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

וְלֹ֥א

H3808

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

הִטּ֖וּ

H5186

not unto me nor inclined

to stretch or spread out; by implication, to bend away (including moral deflection); used in a great variety of application (as follows)

אֶת

H853

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

אָזְנָ֑ם

H241

their ear

broadness. i.e., (concrete) the ear (from its form in man)

וַיַּקְשׁוּ֙

H7185

but hardened

properly, to be dense, i.e., tough or severe (in various applications)

אֶת

H853

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

#10

עָרְפָּ֔ם

H6203

their neck

the nape or back of the neck (as declining); hence, the back generally (whether literal or figurative)

#11

הֵרֵ֖עוּ

H7489

they did worse

properly, to spoil (literally, by breaking to pieces); figuratively, to make (or be) good for nothing, i.e., bad (physically, socially or morally)

#12

מֵאֲבוֹתָֽם׃

than their fathers

father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Jeremiah. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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

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?
How does this verse's literary context within Jeremiah chapter 7 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?

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