Therefore here marks a transition. As a consequence of all that has been said, the LORD will now make his pronouncement: “But now listen to what the LORD says.”

Hear the word of the LORD: See 2.4.

Behold: See 1.6.

I have sworn by my great name: Most translations are literal, whereas Good News Translation and Die Bibel im heutigen Deutsch understand great with the meaning of “mighty” or “powerful,” which accords very well with the context. The name of God, which represents God himself, is a powerful force, which may at will either destroy or strengthen a nation. For a discussion of “swear” and “oath,” see 4.2 and 22.5. In this verse, I have sworn by my great name can be translated “I swear to you by my own powerful name” or “I myself in all my power declare [or, swear].”

My name shall no more be invoked …: The Jews of Egypt will be completely wiped out, so that none of them will ever again be able to make a vow in the LORD’s name (As the Lord GOD lives). See 4.2 and 5.2. Here Good News Translation is an excellent model: “Never again will I let any of you use my name to make a vow by saying, ‘I swear by the living Sovereign LORD!’ ”

Quoted with permission from Newman, Barclay M. and Stine, Philip C. A Handbook on Jeremiah. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2003. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .