Jeremiah 9:14

Authorized King James Version

But have walked after the imagination of their own heart, and after Baalim, which their fathers taught them:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיֵּ֣לְכ֔וּ
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#2
וְאַחֲרֵי֙
after
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
#3
שְׁרִר֣וּת
the imagination
obstinacy
#4
לִבָּ֑ם
of their own heart
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
#5
וְאַחֲרֵי֙
after
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
#6
הַבְּעָלִ֔ים
Baalim
baal, a phoenician deity
#7
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#8
לִמְּד֖וּם
taught
properly, to goad, i.e., (by implication) to teach (the rod being an middle eastern incentive)
#9
אֲבוֹתָֽם׃
H1
which 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 covenant community 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 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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