Exegetically Speaking This Place, with James Hoffmeier: Jeremiah 7:7
Sep 22, 2025
James Hoffmeier, Professor Emeritus of Old Testament and Near Eastern History and Archaeology, discusses fascinating insights into Jeremiah 7. He delves into the ambiguity of the Masoretic text and how different vowel pointings can drastically change the meaning of 'this place.' Hoffmeier challenges the false confidence of Judah in their temple and explores covenant conditions tied to location. His expert analysis sheds light on the complexities of Hebrew textual interpretation and offers crucial context for understanding biblical literature.
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Temple Worship Isn't An Automatic Guarantee
- Jeremiah challenges Judah's 'Zion theology' that temple presence guaranteed security regardless of behavior.
- Hoffmeier explains Jeremiah confronts a false confidence rooted in temple and Davidic promises.
Preaching At Pilgrimage Maximizes Impact
- Jeremiah delivers his sermon at the temple during a major pilgrimage to reach the widest audience.
- Hoffmeier notes the timing aimed to confront both the populace and offended religious leaders.
'This Place' Can Mean Temple Or Land
- 'This place' (makom) can mean either the temple sanctuary or the entire land because proximity to God's presence makes land sacred.
- Hoffmeier highlights the term's fluid use in Jeremiah linking Jerusalem to Shiloh.