[BACK TO 2:1–6:30] It is generally agreed that these chapters are among Jeremiah’s earliest discourses, delivered during the reign of Josiah ( 3:6 ). The basic theme is the virtually total apostasy of Judah (chs. 2–5 ), leading inevitably to divine retribution through foreign invasion (ch. 6 ).

[BACK TO 2:1–3:5] The wickedness and backsliding of God’s people are vividly portrayed in numerous colorful figures of speech.

[BACK TO 2:1] See note on 1:2 .

[BACK TO 2:2] devotion. The Hebrew for this word refers to the most intimate degree of loyalty, love and faithfulness that can exist between two people or between an individual and the Lord. youth … as a bride. Early in her history, Israel had enjoyed a close and cordial relationship with the Lord, who is often described figuratively as Israel’s husband ( 3:14 ; 31:32 ; Isa 54:5 ; Hos 2:16 ). you loved me. But later God’s people forsook him and loved “foreign gods” (v. 25 ), tragically abandoning their first love (cf. Rev 2:4 ). followed me. But later they followed “worthless idols” (vv. 5 , 8 ), “the Baals” (v. 23 ). wilderness. Sinai (see v. 6 ).

[BACK TO 2:3] holy to the L ORD. Set apart to him and his service (see notes on Ex 3:5 ; Lev 11:44 ; Dt 7:6 ). firstfruits. Just as the “best of the firstfruits” of Israel’s crops were to be brought to the Lord ( Ex 23:19 ; see Nu 18:12 ; 2Ch 31:5 ; Eze 44:30 ), so also the people themselves were his first and choicest treasure (cf. Jas 1:18 ; Rev 14:4 and note). disaster overtook them. See, e.g., Ex 17:8–16 .

[BACK TO 2:4] Hear. A common divine imperative in prophetic writings, summoning God’s people—as well as the nations—into his courts to remind them of their legal obligations to him and, when necessary, to pass judgment on them (see, e.g., 7:2 ; 17:20 ; 19:3 ; 21:11 ; 22:2 , 29 ; 31:10 ; 42:15 ; 44:24 , 26 ; Isa 1:10 ; Eze 13:2 ; Hos 4:1 ; Am 7:16 ).

[BACK TO 2:5] This is what the L ORD says. The messenger formula, introducing God’s word through the prophet. Though frequent in overall occurrence, its use in the prophetic books is restricted to Jeremiah, Isaiah (e.g., 7:7 ), Ezekiel (e.g., 2:4 ), Amos (e.g., 1:3 ), Obadiah ( 1 ), Micah ( 3:5 ), Nahum ( 1:12 ), Haggai (e.g., 1:2 ), Zechariah (e.g., 1:3 ) and Malachi ( 1:4 ). strayed. See 4:1 ; 23:13 , 32 ; 31:19 ; 50:6 ; Isa 53:6 ; Eze 34:4–6 , 16 ; 1Pe 2:25 . followed worthless idols. See vv. 8 , 23 ; see also note on v. 2 . “Worthless” is Jeremiah’s favorite way of describing idols ( 8:19 ; 10:8 , 15 ; 14:22 ; 16:19 ; 51:18 ). became worthless themselves. See 2Ki 17:15 . Idolaters are no better than the idols they worship (see Ps 115:8 and note).

[BACK TO 2:6] L ORD … brought us up out of Egypt. The Lord, Israel’s Redeemer (see notes on Ge 2:4 ; Ex 3:15 ), freed his people from Egyptian bondage so that they might serve him alone ( Ex 20:2–6 ). led us. As a shepherd leads his sheep (see v. 17 ; Dt 8:15 ; Ps 23:2–3 ). land of deserts … land of … darkness. The desert often symbolized darkness with its attendant dangers, including death (see v. 31 and note; 9:10 ; 12:12 ; 17:6 ; 23:10 ; Ps 44:19 ).

[BACK TO 2:7] fertile. The Hebrew for this word is karmel , translated “orchards” in 48:33 and also used as the name of a place (see Isa 33:9 and note). Rendered “fruitful land” in 4:26 , it is the opposite of a desert. defiled my land. Made it ceremonially unclean (see 3:1–2 , 9 ; 16:18 ; see also note on Lev 4:12 ). inheritance. The promised land, given by God to Israel as a legacy and often intimately associated with the people themselves (see especially 12:7–9 , 14–15 ). detestable. See note on Lev 7:21 .

[BACK TO 2:8] No one consulted the Lord (see v. 6 ). priests … leaders … prophets. See note on 1:18 . Those who deal with the law. Priests (see Dt 31:11 and note). leaders. Lit. “shepherds,” a term used elsewhere to denote rulers ( 23:1–4 ; 49:19 ; 50:44 ; see especially Eze 34:1–10 , 23–24 ). by Baal. In the name of Baal (cf. 11:21 ; 14:15 ; 23:25 ; 26:9 ; see note on Jdg 2:13 ). following worthless idols. See v. 23 . worthless. Lit. “unprofitable” (see v. 11 ).

[BACK TO 2:9] bring charges against. See note on v. 4 ; see also 25:31 ; Hos 4:1 ; 12:2 ; Mic 6:2 .

[BACK TO 2:10] Cyprus. See Nu 24:24 ; Eze 27:6 and notes. Kedar. Represents the eastern nations and regions (see NIV text note; see also 49:28 ; Isa 21:16 and note).

[BACK TO 2:11] Has … gods? A rhetorical question, clearly expecting a negative answer and emphasizing how incredible is Judah’s practice of substituting idolatry for the worship of the Lord. their glorious God. See Ps 106:20 ; Hos 4:7 ; see also 1Sa 15:29 . worthless. See note on v. 8 .

[BACK TO 2:12] Be appalled … you heavens. See note on Isa 1:2 ; see also Mic 6:1–2 and note. The Hebrew for these phrases offers a striking play on words: shommu shamayim.

[BACK TO 2:13] See 1:16 . forsaken me. See v. 19 . me , the spring of living water. See 17:13 . God himself provides life-giving power to his people (see Ps 36:9 ; see also note on Jn 4:10 ; Isa 55:1 and note; Rev 21:6 ). broken cisterns. Watertight plaster was used to keep cisterns from losing water. Idols, like broken cisterns, will always fail their worshipers; by contrast, God provides life abundant and unfailing (cf. Jn 10:10 and note).

[BACK TO 2:14] Is … birth? Another rhetorical question (see note on v. 11 ), again expecting a negative answer in the light of God’s redemptive acts during the period of the exodus (see Ex 6:6 ; 20:2 ). plunder. To Assyria and Egypt (see vv. 15–16 ).

[BACK TO 2:15] Lions. Probably symbolizing Assyria (see v. 18 ; 50:17 ; see also notes on 4:7 ; Isa 15:9 ). roared … growled. See Am 3:4 . laid waste his land. See 4:7 ; 18:16 ; 50:3 . towns are burned and deserted. The Hebrew for this phrase is very similar to that in 4:7 , rendered there “towns will lie in ruins without inhabitant” (cf. 22:6 ).

[BACK TO 2:16] Memphis. See 44:1 ; 46:14 , 19 ; see also note on Isa 19:13 . Tahpanhes. Probably the city later called Daphnai by the Greeks, located just south of Lake Menzaleh in the eastern delta region of Egypt and known today as Tell Defneh (see 43:7–9 ; 44:1 ; 46:14 ; Eze 30:18 ; see also map ).

[BACK TO 2:17] he led you. See note on v. 6 . the way. See Ex 18:8 ; 23:20 ; Dt 1:33 .

[BACK TO 2:18] See v. 36 . The tendency of Israel or Judah to seek help alternately from Egypt and Assyria was not restricted to Jeremiah’s time (see, e.g., Hos 7:11 ; 12:2 ). drink water. Provided by enemies, whether national or spiritual, rather than by God (see v. 13 ; Isa 8:6–8 and notes).

[BACK TO 2:19] backsliding. See 3:22 ; 5:6 ; 14:7 . The word implies repeated apostasy. L ORD Almighty. A title for God occurring about 75 times in Jeremiah—more than in any other OT book (see note on 1Sa 1:3 ).

[BACK TO 2:20–3:6] The rebellion of Judah against God is vividly portrayed by Jeremiah with the use of numerous figures of speech.

[BACK TO 2:20] Like a stubborn farm animal (see Hos 4:16 ), Judah refuses to obey the Lord’s commands. broke off your yoke and tore off your bonds. See 5:5 ; see also 31:18 ; cf. Ps 2:3 . Judah has broken God’s law and violated his covenant. on every high hill and under every spreading tree. Locales of pagan worship (see 1Ki 14:23 ; 2Ki 17:10 ; Eze 6:13 ). as a prostitute. See v. 2 ; Ex 34:15 and notes.

[BACK TO 2:21] See Isa 5:1–7 ; see also Ps 80:8–16 ; Eze 17:1–10 ; Hos 10:1–2 ; cf. Jn 15:1–8 . choice vine. See Isa 5:2 . The Hebrew for this word refers to a grape of exceptional quality. wild. Lit. “foreign.” A vine symbolizing Israel should not be like a vine symbolizing Israel’s enemies (see Dt 32:32 ).

[BACK TO 2:22] soap … cleansing powder. Vegetable alkali and mineral alkali, respectively. Sins can be removed and forgiven (see Ps 51:2 , 7 ; Isa 1:18 ), but only when the sinner repents and confesses (see Pr 28:13 ; cf. 1Jn 1:7 , 9 ).

[BACK TO 2:23] defiled. Ceremonially unclean (see 19:13 ; see also note on Lev 4:12 ). run after. See note on v. 2 ; see also v. 25 . Baals. See 9:14 ; see also notes on Jdg 2:11 , 13 . the valley. Probably the Hinnom Valley (see note on Jos 15:5 ), known also as the Valley of Ben Hinnom ( 7:31–32 ; 19:2 , 6 ; 32:35 ). running here and there. Instead, the people of Judah should have been obeying the Lord, not turning aside either “to the right or to the left” ( Dt 28:14 ).

[BACK TO 2:24] wild donkey. Properly the wild ass, an unruly (see Ge 16:12 ) and intractable (see Job 39:5–8 ) animal. accustomed to the desert. See 14:6 ; Job 24:5 . sniffing the wind. The picture is one of active searching, not passive waiting (see Hos 2:7 , 13 ).

[BACK TO 2:25] your feet are bare. You wear out your sandals. It’s no use! See 18:12 and note. I love foreign gods. As opposed to the love Judah was expected to express toward God under the terms of their covenant relationship (see, e.g., Dt 6:5 ; 7:9 ; Hos 2:16 ; see also Ex 39:15 and note). go after them. See v. 23 ; see also note on v. 2 .

[BACK TO 2:26] disgraced when he is caught. See, e.g., Ex 22:3–4 . The Hebrew word underlying “disgraced” means lit. “shame,” a term often used as a pejorative synonym for the name of Baal, the chief god of Canaan (see 11:13 and note; Hos 9:10 ; see also note on Jdg 6:32 ). kings … officials … priests … prophets. See note on 1:18 .

[BACK TO 2:27] See Isa 44:13–17 ; contrast Dt 32:6 , 18 ; Isa 64:8 ; Mal 2:10 . wood … stone. Materials used to make idols (see 3:9 and note). Come … save. See v. 28 .

[BACK TO 2:28] as many gods as … towns. See 11:13 ; cf. 1Co 8:5 . Every ancient Near Eastern town of any importance had its own patron deity (cf. Ac 19:28 , 34–35 ), and many towns were named after deities (see, e.g., note on 1:1 ).

[BACK TO 2:29] bring charges against. Cf. v. 9 ; see 12:1 ; Job 33:13 .

[BACK TO 2:30] I punished your people. Cf. Heb 12:6 . did not respond to correction. See 5:3 . sword has devoured your prophets. See, e.g., 26:20–23 ; 2Ki 21:16 ; 24:4 ; see also Ne 9:26 .

[BACK TO 2:31] generation. Often has negative connotations (see, e.g., Dt 1:35 ; 32:5 ; Mt 12:39 ; 16:4 ; 17:17 ; Ac 2:40 ; Php 2:15 ; Heb 3:10 ). Have I been a desert … a land of great darkness? On the contrary, the Lord led his people through the desert and its darkness (v. 6 ). The phrase “great darkness” translates the Hebrew for “darkness of the L ORD ” (i.e., darkness sent by the Lord; cf. 1Sa 26:12 ), just as “mighty flame” in SS 8:6 translates “flame of the L ORD ” (see note and NIV text note there).

[BACK TO 2:32] See Isa 49:15 , 18 and notes. bride. Cf. v. 2 . my people have forgotten me. See 18:15 ; see also 3:21 ; 13:25 ; Isa 17:10 ; Eze 22:12 ; 23:35 ; Hos 8:14 . Israel was always to “remember” the Lord and all that he had done for her ( Dt 7:18 ; 8:18 ) and so trust and worship him alone, but she often “forgot” him—put him out of mind (see Jdg 2:10 ; Hos 2:13 ).

[BACK TO 2:33] love. See v. 25 and note.

[BACK TO 2:34] See Am 2:6–8 ; 4:1 ; 5:11–12 . catch them breaking in. See Ex 22:2 and note.

[BACK TO 2:36] disappointed by Egypt … by Assyria. See vv. 15–18 and notes. The days of Ahaz (see 2Ch 28:21 ), and perhaps the days of Zedekiah (see 37:7 ), are in view here.

[BACK TO 2:37] with your hands on your head. Ancient reliefs depict captives with wrists tied together above their heads. those you trust. Egypt and Assyria.

[BACK TO 3:1] If … defiled? Cf. Dt 24:1–4 . Divorce and remarriage on a widespread scale defiles not only the participants but also the land in which they live (cf. v. 2 ; Lev 18:25–28 ). lived as a prostitute with many lovers. A metaphor carried forward from ch. 2 and used throughout ch. 3 (see 2:20 , 25 , 33 and note on 2:25 ). many. See note on 2:28 . return to me. Repent of your sins against me (see vv. 12–14 , 22 ; 4:1 ).

[BACK TO 3:2] barren heights. Places where pagan gods were consulted and worshiped (see v. 21 ; 12:12 ; Nu 23:3 ). ravished. Cf. Dt 28:30 . By the roadside you sat. See Ge 38:14 and note; Pr 7:10 , 12 . like a nomad in the desert. Waiting in ambush to waylay a traveler (cf. Lk 10:30 ). defiled the land. See v. 9 .

[BACK TO 3:3] showers have been withheld. See 14:1–6 ; Am 4:7–8 . This is the reverse of God’s gracious response to his people in Hos 2:21 ; 6:3 . spring rains. See notes on Dt 11:14 ; Jas 5:7 . brazen look. See Pr 7:13 .

[BACK TO 3:4] My Father. See v. 19 ; contrast 2:27 and see note there. Compared to the NT, the title “Father” for God is relatively rare in the OT. However, it often occurs in personal names—compound names that begin with Abi- (e.g., Abinadab and Abiram) refer to God as “(my) Father.” my friend. Claiming intimate association (see Ps 55:13 ; Pr 16:28 ; 17:9 ; Mic 7:5 ); perhaps even claiming to be the Lord’s faithful wife (cf. Pr 2:17 ). from my youth. See note on 2:2 .

[BACK TO 3:5] Will your wrath continue forever? Not if God’s people repent (vv. 12–13 ).

[BACK TO 3:6–6:30] The unfaithfulness of Judah ( 3:6–5:31 ) will ultimately bring the Babylonians as God’s instrument of judgment (ch. 6 ).

[BACK TO 3:6] King Josiah. See Introduction: Background ; see also note on 1:2 . faithless Israel. The northern kingdom, destroyed in 722–721 BC (see vv. 8 , 11–12 ).

[BACK TO 3:7] her unfaithful sister Judah. The southern kingdom (see vv. 8 , 10–11 ). Samaria (Israel’s capital) and Jerusalem (Judah’s capital) are similarly compared as adulterous sisters in Eze 23 . it. Israel’s adultery.

[BACK TO 3:8] certificate of divorce. See v. 1 and note; see also Dt 24:1–4 ; Isa 50:1 and notes. sent her away. Into exile in 721 BC. Judah had no fear. She refused to learn from Israel’s tragic experience.

[BACK TO 3:9] committed adultery with stone and wood. Worshiped pagan deities (see notes on 2:27 ; Ex 34:15 ).

[BACK TO 3:10] in pretense. Judah’s response to Josiah’s reform measures (see note on 1:2 ) was superficial and hypocritical.

[BACK TO 3:11] Israel is more righteous than … Judah. See note on v. 8 ; see also Eze 16:51–52 ; 23:11 .

[BACK TO 3:12] Go , proclaim. See 2:2 . north. Assyria’s northern provinces, to which many Israelites had been exiled. Return. Repent (see v. 13 ). faithful. The Hebrew for this word is used of God elsewhere only in Ps 145:13 , 17 . not be angry forever. See note on v. 5 .

[BACK TO 3:13] scattered your favors. See Eze 16:15 , 33–34 and note on 16:33 . foreign gods. See note on 2:25 . under every spreading tree. See note on 2:20 .

[BACK TO 3:14] husband. See 31:32 ; Hos 2:16–17 . The Hebrew root underlying this word is ba’al. Instead of allowing God to be Israel’s husband, his people followed “the Baals” ( 2:23 ; see note on Jdg 2:11 ). one … two. A remnant will return (see note on Isa 10:20–22 ). Zion. Jerusalem.

[BACK TO 3:15] See 23:4 . shepherds. Rulers (see note on 2:8 ). after my own heart. Like David (see 1Sa 13:14 ; see also Eze 34:23 ; Hos 3:5 ).

[BACK TO 3:16] In those days. The Messianic age (see v. 18 ; 31:29 ). numbers have increased. See 23:3 ; Eze 36:11 . For the fuller meaning of the Hebrew underlying this phrase, see note on Ge 1:28 . nor will another one be made. The ark of the covenant, formerly symbolizing God’s royal presence (see 1Sa 4:3 and note), will be irrelevant when the Messiah comes.

[BACK TO 3:17] Throne. The Lord sat “enthroned between the cherubim” above the ark (see 1Sa 4:4 and note), but Jerusalem itself would someday be his throne. all nations will gather. See Zec 2:11 ; see also note on Isa 2:2–4 . they. Israel. follow the stubbornness of their evil hearts. A stock phrase referring to Israel’s disobedience and often involving the worship of pagan gods (see 9:14 ; 11:8 ; 13:10 ; 16:12 ; 18:12 ; 23:17 ).

[BACK TO 3:18] Judah will join … Israel. In the Messianic age God’s divided people will again be united (see, e.g., 31:31 ; Isa 11:12 ; Eze 37:15–23 ; Hos 1:11 ; Zec 11:7 and note). northern land. Where they had been exiles (see note on v. 12 ; see also 31:8 ). land I gave … as an inheritance. See note on 2:7 .

[BACK TO 3:19] my children. Israel was the Lord’s firstborn (see Ex 4:22 ; cf. Hos 11:1 ). pleasant land. See Ps 106:24 ; Zec 7:14 . beautiful inheritance. Judah, Jerusalem, the people themselves—ideally, all were beautiful in God’s eyes (see 6:2 ; 11:16 ). Father. See note on v. 4 .

[BACK TO 3:20] A concise summary of the story told in Hos 1–3 (see note on Ex 34:15 ).

[BACK TO 3:21] barren heights. See note on v. 2 . weeping and pleading. A description of repentance, verbalized in vv. 22b–25 . forgotten. See note on 2:32 .

[BACK TO 3:22] See v. 14 . Return , faithless … backsliding. Each of these three words is derived from the same Hebrew root, producing a striking series of puns. I will cure you. See 30:17 ; 33:6 ; Hos 6:1 ; 14:4 . Yes. The people’s repentance begins.

[BACK TO 3:23] commotion. See, e.g., 1Ki 18:25–29 . in the L ORD … is … salvation. See Ge 49:18 ; Ps 3:8 ; Jnh 2:9 and note.

[BACK TO 3:24] our youth. The period of the judges. shameful gods. See notes on 2:26 ; 11:13 . consumed the fruits. False worship is costly, both financially and spiritually. sons and daughters. Often sacrificed to pagan gods (see note on 7:31 ).

[BACK TO 3:25] shame. The Hebrew for this word is translated “shameful gods” in v. 24 .

[BACK TO 4:2] truthful , just and righteous. The piling up of qualifying words underscores the need for repentance that is sincere and not perfunctory. As surely as the L ORD lives. See note on Ge 42:15 . nations will invoke blessings by him. Reflects the language of the seventh of God’s great promises to Abram (see Ge 12:2–3 and note). Israel’s repentance is a necessary precondition for the ultimate blessing of the nations.

[BACK TO 4:3] Break up your unplowed ground. Probably quoted from Hos 10:12 . do not sow among thorns. See Mt 13:7 , 22 . Openness to the Lord’s overtures is necessary, as is total commitment to him (see Eze 18:31 ).

[BACK TO 4:4] circumcise your hearts. Consecrate your hearts (see 6:10 and NIV text note; 9:26 ; see also Ge 17:10 and note; Dt 10:16 ; 30:6 ; cf. Ro 2:29 and note; 1Co 7:19 ; Col 2:11 ). wrath will … burn with no one to quench. See 21:12 ; see also Isa 1:31 ; Am 5:6 and note. because of the evil you have done. Probably quoted from Dt 28:20 .

[BACK TO 4:5–31] The invaders from the north will bring God’s judgment against his unrepentant people (see ch. 6 ).

[BACK TO 4:5] Sound the trumpet. To warn of impending doom (see 6:1 ; see also note on Joel 2:1 ). flee to the fortified cities. See v. 6 . To avoid capture by hostile troops, people living in the countryside would take refuge in the nearest walled town (see 5:17 ; 8:14 ; 34:7 ; 48:18 ).

[BACK TO 4:6] See 6:1 . Raise the signal. See note on Isa 5:26 . disaster from the north. See 1:14 ; 6:22 ; the Babylonians (see 25:9 ; Isa 41:25 and notes). terrible destruction. See 6:1 ; cf. 48:3 ; 50:22 ; 51:54 .

[BACK TO 4:7] lion. A symbol of Babylonia (see note on 2:15 ). destroyer. Usually refers to Babylonia ( 6:26 ; 15:8 ; 48:8 , 32 ), but in 51:1 , 56 it refers to Persia and her allies (see 51:48 , 53 ). towns … without inhabitant. See note on 2:15 ; see also v. 25 ; 46:19 .

[BACK TO 4:8] sackcloth. See notes on Ge 37:34 ; Rev 11:3 . anger … has not turned away. Contrast 2:35 .

[BACK TO 4:9] In that day. See note on Isa 2:11 , 17 , 20 . king … officials … priests … prophets. See note on 1:18 .

[BACK TO 4:10] you have deceived. Not directly, but through false prophets (see, e.g., 1Ki 22:20–23 and note on 22:23 ). You will have peace. Here the words of false prophets, not of God (see 14:13 ; 23:17 ; see also 6:13–14 ; 8:10–11 ). throats. The Hebrew for this word is usually translated “soul” or “life,” but originally it had the meaning “throat, neck” (see, e.g., Ps 69:1 ).

[BACK TO 4:11] scorching wind. The sirocco or khamsin, a hot, dry wind that brings sand and dust (see Ps 11:6 ; Isa 11:15 ; Jnh 4:8 ). winnow. See note on Ru 1:22 .

[BACK TO 4:12] too strong for that. Neither winnowing (separating grain from chaff) nor cleansing (blowing dust from the grain), God’s judgments will sweep away good and bad alike.

[BACK TO 4:13] advances like the clouds. Cf. Eze 38:16 . chariots … like a whirlwind. See 2Ki 2:11 ; 6:17 ; Ps 68:17 ; Isa 66:15 . horses are swifter than eagles. See Hab 1:8 , where the Babylonians ( Hab 1:6 ) use horses that are “swifter than leopards” and employ cavalry that “fly like an eagle” (see also Dt 28:49 ). ruined. See v. 20 ; 9:19 ; 48:1 .

[BACK TO 4:14] Jerusalem. As the royal city of Judah and the most important metropolis of the nation, Jerusalem is addressed as representative of the nation. wash. See 2:22 and note. wicked thoughts. Against other people (see Pr 6:18 ; Isa 59:7 ).

[BACK TO 4:15] Dan. Far away, close to the northern border of Israel (see 8:16 ). Ephraim. A few miles north of Jerusalem. The enemy, in the mind’s eye of the prophet, is making fearfully rapid progress toward the holy city. Cf. Mic 1:10–16 .

[BACK TO 4:16] besieging army. See Isa 1:8 . distant land. Babylonia. raising a war cry. The Hebrew underlying this phrase is translated “growled” in 2:15 .

[BACK TO 4:17] surround her. See 1:15 .

[BACK TO 4:18] Your own … actions have brought this on you. See Pr 26:27 and note.

[BACK TO 4:19–26] A brief personal interlude, broken only by the divine complaint in v. 22 . Jeremiah voices his agony at the approaching destruction of his beloved land and its people.

[BACK TO 4:19] See 10:19–20 . anguish. Often associated with labor pangs, as here (see 6:24 ; 49:24 ; 50:43 ). heart pounds. See Job 37:1 ; Ps 38:10 ; Hab 3:16 . sound of the trumpet. See note on v. 5 .

[BACK TO 4:20] lies in ruins. See v. 13 ; 9:19 ; 48:1 . shelter. Lit. “tent curtains” (as in Isa 54:2 ), usually made of goat hair (see Ex 26:7 ) and therefore strong enough to protect from cold and rain (see 10:20 ).

[BACK TO 4:21] battle standard … sound of the trumpet. See notes on vv. 5–6 .

[BACK TO 4:22] The Lord speaks. fools. See NIV text note on Pr 1:7 . do not know me. See 2:8 . Leaders and people alike had committed the ultimate sin (see Isa 1:2–3 ; Hos 4:1 ). senseless. See 5:21 ; 10:8 , 14 , 21 ; 51:17 . skilled in doing evil. See Mic 7:3 . know not how to do good. See Ps 14:1–3 and note on 14:1 .

[BACK TO 4:23–26] The striking repetition of “I looked” at the beginning of each verse ties this poem together and underscores its visionary character, as the prophet sees his beloved land in ruins after the Babylonian onslaught. Creation, as it were, has been reversed.

[BACK TO 4:23] formless and empty. The phrase occurs elsewhere only in Ge 1:2 (see note there). In Jeremiah’s vision, the primeval chaos has returned. light was gone. Contrast Ge 1:3 .

[BACK TO 4:24] See Na 1:5 .

[BACK TO 4:25] there were no people. The Hebrew underlying this phrase occurs elsewhere only in Ge 2:5 , where it is translated “there was no one.” Again, uncreation has replaced creation.

[BACK TO 4:26] fruitful land. See note on 2:7 . fierce anger. See v. 8 ; Isa 13:13 ; Na 1:6 .

[BACK TO 4:27] not destroy it completely. See 5:10 , 18 ; 30:11 ; 46:28 . God’s mercy tempers the total judgment envisioned by Jeremiah in vv. 23–26 .

[BACK TO 4:28] will not relent. Unless his people repent (see 18:7–10 and note).

[BACK TO 4:29] archers. Babylonia’s evil deeds against Judah will someday recoil on her (see 50:29 ). Some go. See Jdg 6:2 ; 1Sa 13:6 ; Isa 2:19 , 21 . Even people living in fortified towns feel unsafe. deserted. Contrast Isa 62:4 .

[BACK TO 4:30] you … yourself. All the second person pronouns in this verse represent feminine pronouns or verbs in Hebrew, indicating that Jerusalem is being addressed (see v. 14 and note). She is here portrayed as an adulterous wife trying to allure her lovers. makeup. Antimony, a black powder used to enlarge the eyes and make them more attractive (see 2Ki 9:30 ; Eze 23:40 ). lovers. The Hebrew root underlying this word is found elsewhere only in Eze 23:5 , 7 , 9 , 12 , 16 , 20 , where it is used of Samaria and Jerusalem, the adulterous sisters (see notes on Jer 2:25 ; 3:1 , 7 ) who “lusted” after foreign nations and their gods. want to kill you. They are intent only on murdering you (see v. 31 ).

[BACK TO 4:31] woman in labor. See 6:24 ; 13:21 ; 22:23 ; 30:6 ; 31:8 ; 48:41 ; 49:22 , 24 ; 50:43 ; see also v. 19 ; Isa 13:8 and notes. Daughter Zion. A personification of Jerusalem (see note on 2Ki 19:21 ). stretching out her hands. In prayer for help (see Job 11:13 ).

[BACK TO 5:1–31] Jeremiah resumes his vivid description of the wickedness of the people of Judah and Jerusalem.

[BACK TO 5:1] See Zep 1:12 . The Lord challenges anyone to find just one righteous person in Israel—a rhetorical way of charging that corruption pervaded the city (see Ps 14:1–3 ; Isa 64:6–7 ; Hos 4:1–2 ; Mic 7:2 ). If you can find … I will forgive. See Ge 18:26–32 .

[BACK TO 5:2] As surely as the L ORD lives. See 4:2 ; see also Ge 42:15 and note. they are swearing falsely. In violation of Lev 19:12 (see note on Ex 20:7 ). The Hebrew underlying this phrase is translated “commit … perjury” in 7:9 (see NIV text note there).

[BACK TO 5:3] refused correction. See 2:30 . made their faces harder than stone. A striking portrayal of rebellion (see Eze 3:7–9 ).

[BACK TO 5:4] poor. Concerned about basic physical needs (cf. 39:10 ; 40:7 ), they are uninformed of God’s word and way. foolish. See 4:22 ; see also Nu 12:11 and NIV text note on Pr 1:7 . do not know … requirements of their God. They are more ignorant than the birds of the heavens (see 8:7 ).

[BACK TO 5:5] leaders. Lit. “great ones.” Although possessing every advantage, they were no more righteous than the poorest of the common people. broken … bonds. See note on 2:20 .

[BACK TO 5:6] lion … wolf … leopard. See Lev 26:22 ; Eze 14:15 ; cf. 2Ki 17:25–26 . lie in wait. The Hebrew for this phrase is translated “watching” in 1:12 . backslidings. See 2:19 ; 3:22 ; 14:7 . The word implies repeated apostasy.

[BACK TO 5:7] Why should I forgive you? See v. 1 . Your children. Jerusalem is depicted as the “mother” city of the nation. gods that are not gods. Idols (see 2:11 ). I supplied … yet they. See Dt 32:15–16 ; Hos 2:8 . committed adultery. See 2:25 and note.

[BACK TO 5:8] lusty stallions. See 13:27 ; 50:11 ; Eze 23:20 .

[BACK TO 5:9] Should I not punish … such a nation as this? Repeated in v. 29 ; 9:9 .

[BACK TO 5:10] Go. Addressed to Israel’s enemies (see v. 15 ). vineyards. Vines and vineyards are often symbolic of Israel (see notes on 2:21 ; Isa 5:1 ). not destroy them completely. See v. 18 ; see also note on 4:27 . Strip off her branches. See Isa 18:5 ; Jn 15:2 , 6 . people do not belong to the L ORD. See Hos 1:9 .

[BACK TO 5:11] See note on 3:7 .

[BACK TO 5:12] He will do nothing! Either good or bad (see Zep 1:12 ). sword or famine. Jeremiah introduces us to the first two elements of his characteristic triad: “sword, famine and plague” (see note on 14:12 ).

[BACK TO 5:13] prophets are but wind. Like images of false gods (see Isa 41:29 ). let what they say be done to them. See note on 4:29 ; see also Ps 7:16 ; 54:5 .

[BACK TO 5:14] my words in your mouth a fire. In contrast to the total lack of God’s word in the mouths of false prophets (v. 13 ). See 20:9 and note. consumes. See note on Isa 1:31 .

[BACK TO 5:15] distant nation. See note on 4:16 . ancient and enduring nation. Babylonia’s history reached back 2,000 years and more. whose language you do not know. See Dt 28:49 and note.

[BACK TO 5:16] open grave. Symbolizing insatiability, destruction and death (see Ps 5:9 ; Pr 30:15–16 ).

[BACK TO 5:17] devour your sons and daughters. Either as sacrifices to pagan gods (see note on 3:24 ) or as casualties of war (see 10:25 ). fortified cities in which you trust. See note on 4:5 ; see also Dt 28:52 .

[BACK TO 5:18] See v. 10 ; see also note on 4:27 .

[BACK TO 5:21] Hear this. See note on 2:4 . foolish and senseless. See 4:22 ; see also NIV text note on Pr 1:7 . who have eyes … do not hear. See note on Isa 6:10 ; see also Dt 29:4 ; Ps 115:4–8 ; 135:15–18 .

[BACK TO 5:22] fear me. See note on Ge 20:11 . boundary for the sea. See Job 38:8–11 ; Ps 104:6–9 .

[BACK TO 5:23] Though the sea never crosses its divinely appointed boundaries, God’s people have violated the limits he has set for them.

[BACK TO 5:24] God , who gives. See v. 7 and note. autumn and spring rains. See 3:3 ; see also note on Dt 11:14 . regular weeks of harvest. Perhaps the seven weeks between Passover and the Festival of Weeks (see Lev 23:15–16 ).

[BACK TO 5:26] traps. Lit. “destroyer” (see, e.g., Ex 12:23 ) or “destruction” (see, e.g., Eze 21:31 ). people. Innocent (see Isa 29:21 ), godly, upright people (see Mic 7:2 ).

[BACK TO 5:27] cages. Traps woven of wicker; the Hebrew for this word is translated “basket” in Am 8:1–2 . deceit. Riches gained through extortion and deception (see Hab 2:6 ).

[BACK TO 5:28] grown fat and sleek. Symbolic of prosperity (see Dt 32:15 ; Jas 5:5 and note). evil deeds have no limit. See Ps 73:7 . They do not promote the case. What the wicked will not do, God must do (see Dt 10:18 )—and so must those who truly know and serve him (see 22:16 ; Jas 1:27 ).

[BACK TO 5:29] Repeated from v. 9 ; see also 9:9 .

[BACK TO 5:31] See 1:18 and note. prophesy lies. See 20:6 (often, and arrogantly, in God’s name; see 23:25 ; 27:15 ; 29:9 ). my people love it this way. See note on Am 4:5 .

[BACK TO 6:1–30] The prophet envisions the future Babylonian attack on Jerusalem.

[BACK TO 6:1] The Lord speaks in vv. 1–3 . Verse 1 is strongly reminiscent of 4:6 (see note there). But whereas in 4:6 the command was to seek protection in Jerusalem, in 6:1 the people are to flee from Jerusalem, because no place—not even the holy city itself—will be safe from the invader. Benjamin. The tribal territory bordering Judah north of Jerusalem. Jeremiah himself was from Benjamite territory (see 1:1 ). Sound … Tekoa. In the Hebrew there is a play on these words. Tekoa was the hometown of Amos (see Introduction to Amos: Author ). Raise … signal. In the Hebrew there is a play on words, made possible by using a different Hebrew word (found also in Lachish Letter 4:10) for “signal” (caused by the smoke of a fire; see Jdg 20:38 , 40 ) than the one used in 4:6 . Beth Hakkerem. Mentioned elsewhere only in Ne 3:14 (see note there). disaster … out of the north. See 1:14 and note.

[BACK TO 6:2] Daughter Zion. A personification of Jerusalem (see note on 2Ki 19:21 ). delicate. Used to describe the city of Babylon in Isa 47:1 .

[BACK TO 6:3] See 1:15 . Shepherds with their flocks. Rulers (see note on 2:8 ) with their troops. pitch. The Hebrew for this verb continues the pun on “Tekoa” in v. 1 (see note on v. 8 ). each … his own portion. The Hebrew for this phrase is used similarly (“each … their own place”) in Nu 2:17 . tending. Grazing or depasturing, and thus destroying.

[BACK TO 6:4] The invaders speak in vv. 4–5 . Prepare for. Lit. “Consecrate” (also in Joel 3:9 ; Mic 3:5 ). Since ancient battles had religious connotations, soldiers had to prepare themselves ritually, as well as militarily (see Dt 20:2–4 ; 1Sa 21:4 and note). at noon. To take advantage of the element of surprise, since the usual time of attack was early in the morning (see, e.g., Jos 8:10 , 14 ).

[BACK TO 6:5] at night. Since attacking soldiers normally retired for the night and resumed siege the following morning, the phrase underscores their eagerness and determination (see Jdg 7:19 and note).

[BACK TO 6:6] The Lord addresses the Babylonian troops. siege ramps. To help them bring up battering rams and scale Jerusalem’s walls (see 33:4 ). oppression. Against its own people (see note on Isa 30:12 ).

[BACK TO 6:7] sickness and wounds. Jerusalem suffers from spiritual decay and disease (see v. 14 ) and is not aware of it.

[BACK TO 6:8] Take warning. The better part of wisdom (see v. 10 ; Ps 2:10 ). turn away. In sorrow, but also in disgust. The Hebrew for this phrase continues the pun on “Tekoa” in v. 1 (see note on v. 3 ). desolate so no one can live in it. See 22:6 .

[BACK TO 6:9] glean. See notes on Ru 2:2 ; Isa 17:5 . remnant. See 11:23 ; 23:3 ; 31:7 ; 40:11 , 15 ; 42:2 , 15 , 19 ; 43:5 ; 44:7 , 12 , 14 , 28 ; 50:20 ; see also note on Isa 10:20–22 . thoroughly. Stopping just short of complete destruction (see 4:27 ; 5:10 , 18 ; 30:11 ; 46:28 ). vine. Symbolic of Israel (see 2:21 and note; 5:10 ).

[BACK TO 6:10] Jeremiah speaks. give warning. See note on v. 8 . ears are closed. See NIV text note; see also 4:4 and note. The imagery of uncircumcised ears is found elsewhere only in Ac 7:51 (see note there).

[BACK TO 6:11] The prophet speaks, then the Lord resumes his speech (through v. 23 ). full of the wrath. See 25:15 and note. children … young men … husband and wife … old. All will be judged, from youngest to oldest (see v. 13 ). in the street. Where children play (see 9:21 ; Zec 8:5 ).

[BACK TO 6:12–15] Repeated almost verbatim in 8:10–12 .

[BACK TO 6:12] houses … fields … wives. Cf. Ex 20:17 ; Dt 5:21 . turned over to others. As Dt 28:30 warned—one of the covenant curses. stretch out my hand against. To destroy (see 15:6 ).

[BACK TO 6:13] See 1:18 and note.

[BACK TO 6:14] wound. See note on v. 7 . Peace … when there is no peace. A common message of false and greedy prophets (see Eze 13:10 ; Mic 3:5 ). The wicked, in any case, cannot expect to enjoy peace ( Isa 48:22 ; 57:21 ).

[BACK TO 6:16] ancient paths. The tried and true ways of Judah’s godly ancestors (see 18:15 ; Dt 32:7 ). walk in it. See Isa 30:21 . you will find rest for your souls. Quoted by Jesus in Mt 11:29 (see Isa 28:12 ; cf. Ps 119:165 ).

[BACK TO 6:17] watchmen. True prophets (see Eze 3:17 and note; Hab 2:1 ). sound of the trumpet. To warn of approaching danger (see v. 1 ; see also note on Joel 2:1 ).

[BACK TO 6:18] hear , you nations. See Mic 1:2 .

[BACK TO 6:19] rejected my law. Disobeyed the law of Moses (see 8:8–9 ).

[BACK TO 6:20] Sheba. Located in southwestern Arabia, it was the center of the spice trade (see Isa 60:6 and note). calamus. See Ex 25:6 ; SS 4:14 ; Isa 43:24 and notes. It probably came from India and was an ingredient in the sacred anointing oil ( Ex 30:25 ). burnt offerings are not acceptable. The attitude of one’s heart and the manner of one’s life are far more important than the ritual of sacrifice (see note on Isa 1:11–15 ).

[BACK TO 6:21] obstacles. The Babylonian invaders (see v. 22 ).

[BACK TO 6:22–24] Repeated almost verbatim in 50:41–43 .

[BACK TO 6:22] land of the north. Babylonia (see 4:6 ; Isa 41:25 and notes). from the ends of the earth. See 25:32 ; 31:8 .

[BACK TO 6:23] spear. The Hebrew for this word is translated “javelin” in 1Sa 17:6 . Another possibility is “sword,” as attested in The War of the Sons of Light against the Sons of Darkness , one of the Dead Sea Scrolls (see this essay ). like the roaring sea. See Isa 5:30 ; see also Isa 17:12 and note. horses. See note on 4:13 ; see also 8:16 . Daughter Zion. See v. 2 and note.

[BACK TO 6:24–26] The prophet speaks to, and on behalf of, the people of Judah.

[BACK TO 6:24] hands hang limp. Courage fails (see 47:3 ; Isa 13:7 and notes). Anguish. See note on 4:19 . woman in labor. See note on 4:31 .

[BACK TO 6:25] terror on every side. A favorite expression of Jeremiah ( 20:10 ; 46:5 ; 49:29 ; cf. La 2:22 ); it is used once as a proper name ( 20:3 ).

[BACK TO 6:26] Put on sackcloth. See 4:8 ; see also note on Ge 37:34 . roll in ashes ; mourn. See Eze 27:30–31 ; cf. Mic 1:10 . only son. A father’s most precious possession (see Ge 22:12 , 16 ; Ex 11:5 and note; Am 8:10 ; Zec 12:10 ; Ro 8:32 ). destroyer. Babylonia (see note on 4:7 ).

[BACK TO 6:27–30] The Lord speaks to Jeremiah and appoints him to test the people of Judah as a refiner tests metals (see 9:7 ; Ps 12:6 and note; Isa 1:25 ; Mal 3:2–3 ).

[BACK TO 6:27] tester of metals. See Job 23:10 .

[BACK TO 6:28] going about to slander. Contrary to Lev 19:16 . bronze and iron. Base metals when compared to gold and silver. act corruptly. See Dt 31:29 ; Isa 1:4 .

[BACK TO 6:29] In ancient times, lead was added to silver ore in the refining process. When the crucible was heated, the lead oxidized and acted as a flux to remove the alloys. Here the process fails because the ore is not pure enough (cf. Eze 24:11–13 ).

[BACK TO 6:30] They are … rejected. The “hardened rebels” (v. 28 ), the “wicked” (v. 29 ), have failed to pass the Lord’s test. Nothing worthwhile can be made of them.

[BACK TO 7:1–10:25] A series of temple messages delivered by Jeremiah, perhaps over a period of several years. Since 26:2–6 , 12–15 is very similar in content to ch. 7 , it is possible that chs. 7–10 (or at least ch. 7 ) date to the reign of Jehoiakim (see 26:1 ). On the other hand, Jeremiah may have repeated various themes on several occasions during his lengthy ministry. In any event, nothing in chs. 7–10 is inappropriate to the time of King Josiah.

[BACK TO 7:1–8:3] The straightforward narrative of this section asserts that Solomon’s temple in Jerusalem will not escape the fate of the earlier sanctuary at Shiloh if the people of Judah persist in worshiping false gods.

[BACK TO 7:1] the word that came. See 1:2 and note; 1:4 , 11 , 13 ; 2:1 .

[BACK TO 7:2] gate. In the wall between the inner and outer courts of the temple, perhaps the so-called New Gate ( 26:10 ; 36:10 ). Hear. See note on 2:4 . all you people … who come … to worship. Perhaps during one of the three annual pilgrimage festivals (see Dt 16:16 and note). gates. Leading into the outer court.

[BACK TO 7:3] this place. Used almost 30 times in Jeremiah to designate the land God had given them (see, e.g., v. 7 ; 14:13 , 15 ; 24:5–6 ).

[BACK TO 7:4] deceptive words. Spoken by false prophets. The idea that God would not destroy Jerusalem simply because his dwelling, the temple, was located there was a delusion, fostered in part by the miraculous deliverance of the city during the reign of Hezekiah (see 2Ki 19:32–36 ; cf. 2Sa 7:11b–13 ; Ps 132:13–14 ). In the light of Judah’s sinful rebellion against the Lord, such an idea was “worthless” (v. 8 ; see Mic 3:11 ). This is. Lit. “They are,” referring to the buildings that constituted the entire temple complex. temple … temple … temple. Vain and repetitious babbling (cf. Mt 6:7 ). Often such a threefold repeating of a word or phrase is for emphasis (see 22:29 ; see also note on Isa 6:3 ).

[BACK TO 7:6] Rulers and people alike needed to hear and act on these prophetic words (see 22:2–3 ). foreigner … fatherless … widow. See Dt 16:11 , 14 ; 24:19–21 ; 26:12–13 ; 27:19 ; cf. Jas 1:27 . innocent blood. See 19:4 ; 22:17 ; 26:15 ; see also the frightening example of King Manasseh ( 2Ki 21:16 ).

[BACK TO 7:7] land … for ever and ever. See Ge 17:8 and note.

[BACK TO 7:8] deceptive words. See note on v. 4 .

[BACK TO 7:9] This one verse mentions the violation of fully half of the Ten Commandments (cf. Hos 4:2 and note). burn incense to Baal. See note on 1:16 . follow other gods you have not known. See 19:4 . Tragically, such sins would be the cause of their exile to lands they had not known (see 9:14 , 16 ; 16:11 , 13 ).

[BACK TO 7:10] house , which bears my Name. See vv. 11 , 14 , 30 ; 25:29 ; 32:34 ; 34:15 ; Dt 12:5 and note; 1Ki 8:16 and note; 2Ch 6:33 ; 20:9 ; Da 9:18 . The “Name” of God is equivalent to his gracious presence in such passages (see vv. 12 , 15 ; see also note on Ps 5:11 ). We are safe. See 12:12 . detestable. See 2:7 ; see also note on Lev 7:21 .

[BACK TO 7:11] Together with the last half of Isa 56:7 , part of this verse is quoted by Jesus in Mt 21:13 ; Mk 11:17 ; Lk 19:46 . den of robbers. As thieves hide in caves and think they are safe, so the people of Judah falsely trust in the temple to protect them in spite of their sins.

[BACK TO 7:12] See note on 7:1–8:3 . place in Shiloh … see what I did to it. See v. 14 ; 26:6 , 9 ; Ps 78:60–61 . The tabernacle had been set up in Shiloh after the conquest of Canaan ( Jos 18:1 ) and was still there at the end of the period of the judges (see 1Sa 1:9 ). Modern Seilun, near a main highway about 18 miles north of Jerusalem, preserves the name of the ancient site. Archaeological excavations there indicate that it was destroyed by the Philistines c. 1050 BC. The tabernacle itself was not included in that destruction, since it was still in existence at Gibeon during David’s reign (see 1Ch 21:29 ). One or more auxiliary buildings had apparently been erected at Shiloh near the tabernacle in connection with various aspects of public worship there (cf. the reference to the “doors of the house of the L ORD ” in 1Sa 3:15 ; see note on 1Sa 1:9 ). Such structures would have been destroyed with the city itself, perhaps sometime after the events of 1Sa 4 . See photo below.

[BACK TO 7:13] again and again. The Hebrew idiom underlying this phrase is found frequently in Jeremiah (v. 25 ; 11:7 ; 25:3–4 ; 26:5 ; 29:19 ; 32:33 ; 35:14–15 ; 44:4 ) but appears nowhere else in the OT.

[BACK TO 7:15] thrust you from my presence. Into exile (see Dt 29:28 ). just as I did all your fellow Israelites. God sent Israel, the northern kingdom, into captivity in 721 BC (see 2Ki 17:20 ). Ephraim. Another name for Israel (see, e.g., 31:9 )—and, ironically, the tribal territory in which Shiloh was located.

[BACK TO 7:16] Perhaps the events of ch. 26 belong chronologically between vv. 15 and 16 (see Introduction: Outline ). do not pray for this people. As a true prophet would (see 27:18 ; Ex 32:31–32 ; 1Sa 12:23 ). See 11:14 ; 14:11 . There is virtually no hope for them (cf. Eze 14:14 , 20 ). On various occasions, however, Jeremiah prayed for his countrymen (see, e.g., 18:20 ). this people. See note on Ex 17:4 .

[BACK TO 7:18] children … fathers … women. Entire families participate in idolatrous worship. cakes. See 44:19 . Queen of Heaven. A Babylonian title for Ishtar, an important goddess in the Babylonian pantheon (see 44:17–19 , 25 ). drink offerings to other gods. And sometimes to the Queen of Heaven herself (see 44:19 , 25 ). arouse my anger. See Dt 31:29 .

[BACK TO 7:19] their own shame. See 3:25 .

[BACK TO 7:20] All nature suffers when God judges sinners (see 5:17 ; Ro 8:20–22 ). burn and not be quenched. See 4:4 ; 21:12 ; see also Isa 1:31 ; Am 5:6 .

[BACK TO 7:21] Because of your sinful deeds your sacrifices are worthless, so you might as well eat them yourselves.

[BACK TO 7:22–23] Sacrifices are valid only when accompanied by sincere repentance and joyful obedience (see 6:20 ; Isa 1:11–15 and notes).

[BACK TO 7:23] your God … my people. The most basic summary of the relationship between God and Israel implied in the covenant at Sinai (see 31:33 ; Ex 6:7 ; Lev 26:12 ; Zec 8:8 and notes; Dt 26:17–18 ).

[BACK TO 7:24] followed … evil hearts. See note on 3:17 ; see also Ge 6:5 and note.

[BACK TO 7:25] again and again. See note on v. 13 . my servants the prophets. See 25:4 ; 26:5 ; 29:19 ; 35:15 ; 44:4 ; see also Zec 1:6 and note. God had promised that Moses would be the first in a long line of prophets who would speak in the Lord’s name and serve him faithfully (see Dt 18:15–22 and notes), a promise fulfilled in Christ (see Ac 3:22 , 26 and note).

[BACK TO 7:26] stiff-necked. See 17:23 ; 19:15 ; Ex 32:9 and note.

[BACK TO 7:28] not … responded to correction. See 2:30 ; 5:3 . Truth … has vanished from their lips. No one seeks the truth (see 5:1 and note).

[BACK TO 7:29] Addressed to Jerusalem. Cut off your hair. A sign of mourning (see Job 1:20 ; Mic 1:16 ). The Hebrew for the word “hair” is related to the word “Nazirite” ( Nu 6:2 ; see note there) and referred originally to the diadem worn by the high priest (see Ex 29:6 ). The Nazirite’s hair was the symbol of their separation or consecration ( Nu 6:7 ). As the Nazirite was commanded to cut off their hair when they became ceremonially unclean ( Nu 6:9 ), so also Jerusalem must cut off her hair because of her sins. lament on the barren heights. See 3:21 ; see also note on 3:2 .

[BACK TO 7:30] set up their … idols in the house. Manasseh had put a carved Asherah pole (see NIV text note on 2Ki 13:6 ) in the temple ( 2Ki 21:7 ). Jeremiah’s contemporary, the good King Josiah, removed the pole and other accessories to idol worship ( 2Ki 23:4–7 ). But less than 20 years after Josiah’s death, Ezekiel reported that there were numerous idols in the temple courts (see Eze 8:3 , 5–6 , 10 , 12 ). defiled it. See note on 2:7 .

[BACK TO 7:31] high places. Pagan shrines, usually (but not here) located on natural heights (see 1Sa 9:13–14 ; 10:5 ; 1Ki 11:7 ). Topheth. See v. 32 ; 19:6 , 11–14 ; see also note on Isa 30:33 . The word is of Aramaic origin and means “fireplace,” though in cultures outside Israel it was used as a common noun meaning “place of child sacrifice.” Its vowel pattern was perhaps intentionally conformed to that of Hebrew bosheth , “shameful thing” (see note on Jdg 6:32 ), often used in connection with idol worship (see notes on 2:26 ; 3:25 ). The OT Topheth had a fire pit (see Isa 30:33 ), into which the hapless children were apparently thrown. Valley of Ben Hinnom. See v. 32 ; 19:2 , 6 ; 32:35 ; see also note on Jos 15:5 . It was used as a trash dump and also as a place for sacrificing children to pagan gods. The abbreviated Hebrew name ge’ hinnom (“Valley of Hinnom”; see Ne 11:30 and note) became “Gehenna” (Greek geenna ), consistently translated in the NT as “hell,” the place of eternal, fiery punishment (see Mt 5:22 and note; 18:9 ; Mk 9:47–48 ). burn their sons and daughters in the fire. A horrible ritual, prohibited in the law of Moses (see Lev 18:21 and note; Dt 18:10 ) but practiced by Ahaz (see 2Ki 16:2–3 ) and Manasseh ( 2Ki 21:1 , 6 ). nor did it enter my mind. Stresses how terribly evil such an act is to God (see 19:5 ; 32:35 ).

[BACK TO 7:32] So beware … Valley of Slaughter. Repeated almost verbatim in 19:6 . Their place of sacrifice would become their cemetery when the people of Judah were slaughtered by the Babylonian invaders.

[BACK TO 7:33] The punishment announced here is one of the curses for covenant disobedience (see Dt 28:26 ). food for the birds … wild animals. See 16:4 ; 19:7 ; see also 34:20 , where the same judgment is the result of violating God’s covenant ( 34:18–19 ). To remain unburied was an unspeakable abomination in ancient times (cf. 22:19 and note).

[BACK TO 7:34] See 16:9 ; 25:10 ; contrast 33:10–11 . land will become desolate. Another covenant curse ( Lev 26:31 , 33 ).

[BACK TO 8:1] bones … removed from their graves. A gross indignity and sacrilege (see 2Ki 23:16 , 18 ; Am 2:1 and note). kings … officials … priests … prophets. See 2:26 ; see also note on 1:18 .

[BACK TO 8:2] exposed to the sun … moon … stars. To hasten their disintegration, and perhaps also to demonstrate that the heavenly bodies, which had been worshiped by some of Judah’s kings (see 2Ki 21:3 , 5 ; 23:11 ), among others, were powerless to help. loved and served and … followed and consulted and worshiped. Acts of homage and adoration that should have been given to God alone. They. The bones. not be gathered up or buried. Contrast 2Sa 21:13–14 . dung. See 9:22 ; 16:4 ; 25:33 .

[BACK TO 8:3] survivors. See note on 6:9 .

[BACK TO 8:4–9:26] In contrast to 7:1–8:3 , this section is almost completely in poetic form. Jeremiah resumes his extended commentary on the inevitability of divine judgment against sinners.

[BACK TO 8:4] Say to them. Connects this section with the previous (see 7:28 ). turns away … return. The Hebrew for these two verbs is identical, forming a play on words.

[BACK TO 8:5] The general truths stated in v. 4 are routinely and perversely violated by the people of Jerusalem. turned away … turn away … return. Continuing the wordplay of v. 4 .

[BACK TO 8:6] I. The Lord. pursues. The Hebrew for this word continues the wordplay of vv. 4–5 . their own course. And therefore evil (see 23:10 ).

[BACK TO 8:7] See Isa 1:3 . Although migratory birds obey their God-given instincts, God’s rebellious people refuse to obey his laws. swift. Of similar build and habit as the swallow but not related to it (see 38:14 , where it is also linked with the thrush). do not know … requirements of the L ORD. See note on 5:4 .

[BACK TO 8:8–9] law of the L ORD … word of the L ORD. Misinterpreting and manipulating the first (the written law of Moses) leads to rejection of the second (God’s truth as found in the law and proclaimed by his servants the prophets).

[BACK TO 8:8] lying pen. Symbolizes mistreatment of the written law. scribes. The earliest mention of them as a recognizable group. They were apparently organized on the basis of families (see 1Ch 2:55 ; 2Ch 34:13 ; see also note on Ezr 7:6 ). handled it falsely. Contrast 2Ti 2:15 .

[BACK TO 8:9] rejected … wisdom. Contrast Dt 4:5–6 .

[BACK TO 8:10–12] See 6:12–15 and notes.

[BACK TO 8:11] my people. Lit. “the Daughter of my people” (also in v. 21 ; see Isa 22:4 and note).

[BACK TO 8:13–9:24] This section is read aloud in synagogues every year on the ninth of Av (see chart ), the day the temple in Jerusalem was destroyed by the Babylonians in 586 BC and again by the Romans in AD 70.

[BACK TO 8:13] grapes … figs. Symbolic of individual people also in Mic 7:1 ; see ch. 24 . vine. Israel (see 2:21 and note). leaves will wither. Contrast 17:8 ; Ps 1:3 .

[BACK TO 8:14–16] On behalf of the people the prophet speaks, envisioning the Babylonian invasion.

[BACK TO 8:14] Gather together! See 4:5 . The Hebrew for this phrase forms a wordplay with the Hebrew for “take away” and “harvest” in v. 13 . flee to the fortified cities. See note on 4:5 . poisoned water. The phrase is unique to the prophet Jeremiah (see 9:15 ; 23:15 ; cf. 25:15 ).

[BACK TO 8:15] Repeated almost verbatim in 14:19 . peace. Under the circumstances, a false hope (see notes on 4:10 ; 6:14 ). healing. See note on 6:7 .

[BACK TO 8:16] the enemy’s horses. See note on 4:13 . Dan. Close to the northern border of Israel. It would be the first to feel the effects of the Babylonian invasion. stallions. Lit. “mighty ones”; the Hebrew word is translated “stallions” again in 50:11 , “steeds” in 47:3 .

[BACK TO 8:17] vipers that cannot be charmed. Such are the wicked always (see Ps 58:4–5 ).

[BACK TO 8:18] The prophet speaks. my heart is faint. See La 1:22 ; 5:17 .

[BACK TO 8:19] The prophet speaks in the first part of the verse, the Lord in the last part. my people from a land far away. Judah in Babylonian exile (see Ps 137:1–4 ) as Jeremiah envisions the future. Is the L ORD not in Zion? Cf. Mic 3:11 . The people are perplexed at their fate, still wondering how God could have permitted the destruction of his land and temple (see note on 7:4 ). King. God (see Isa 33:22 and note). aroused my anger. See 7:18 ; Dt 31:29 . worthless … idols. See note on 2:5 .

[BACK TO 8:20] The people speak from the hopelessness of their exile. we are not saved. We have been captured by the enemy.

[BACK TO 8:21] Jeremiah identifies himself with his exiled countrymen. grips me. See 6:24 .

[BACK TO 8:22] balm in Gilead. See 46:11 ; cf. 51:8 . The territory of Gilead was an important source of spices and medicinal herbs (see Ge 37:25 and note). no healing for the wound. Contrast 30:17 .

[BACK TO 9:1–2] The prophet’s frustration is highlighted as he speaks of his countrymen with tender sympathy in v. 1 and with indignant disgust in v. 2 .

[BACK TO 9:1] Jeremiah is often called the “weeping prophet”—a well-deserved title (see v. 10 ; the book of Lamentations; cf. 2Sa 18:33 ; Lk 19:41 ; Ro 9:2–4 ; 10:1 ).

[BACK TO 9:2] The prophet wants to get as far away from his wicked countrymen as possible (cf. Ps 55:6–8 ). adulterers … unfaithful people. See v. 14 ; see also Ex 34:15 and note. crowd. The Hebrew for this word is always used elsewhere in the OT in the sense of a solemn religious assembly (see, e.g., Dt 16:8 ), sometimes perverted by the worshipers and therefore falling under divine judgment (see Isa 1:13 ; Am 5:21 ).

[BACK TO 9:3–9] The Lord speaks.

[BACK TO 9:3] tongue like a bow. See vv. 5 , 8 ; see also Ps 64:3–4 ; cf. Jas 3:5–12 . do not acknowledge me. See v. 6 ; Jdg 2:10 ; 1Sa 2:12 ; Job 18:21 ; Hos 4:1 and note; Ro 1:28 ; contrast Hos 6:3 .

[BACK TO 9:4] deceiver. See NIV text note; Ge 25:26 and note; NIV text note on Ge 27:36 ; Hos 12:2–3 and NIV text note on 12:2 .

[BACK TO 9:6] refuse to acknowledge me. The situation has deteriorated even further (v. 3 says simply “do not acknowledge me”).

[BACK TO 9:7] refine and test. See 6:27–30 and notes. The Lord will test his people “in the furnace of affliction” ( Isa 48:10 ; see note there).

[BACK TO 9:8] tongue … speaks deceitfully. See v. 3 and note. With their mouths … but in their hearts. See Ps 55:21 . cordially. The Hebrew for this word is translated “peace” in 6:14 (see note there).

[BACK TO 9:9] Repeated from 5:9 , 29 .

[BACK TO 9:10] The prophet speaks. See 4:23–26 and notes. weep and wail. See v. 18 ; see also note on v. 1 . wilderness grasslands. Good for poor grazing at best (see 1Sa 17:28 ; cf. Ex 3:1 ). desolate. Lit. “burned” (as in 2:15 ); here parched by the blazing sun. untraveled. See v. 12 ; Eze 33:28 .

[BACK TO 9:11] The Lord speaks. haunt of jackals. See 10:22 ; 49:33 ; 51:37 ; Ps 44:19 ; Isa 13:21–22 ; La 5:18 ; Eze 13:4 ; Mal 1:3 ; contrast Isa 35:7 . no one can live there. See 2:15 ; 4:7 and notes.

[BACK TO 9:12] The prophet asks a series of questions. Who is wise … ? See Hos 14:9 .

[BACK TO 9:13] The Lord answers the prophet and then continues to speak through v. 19 . law , which I set before them. In the days of Moses (see Dt 4:8 ).

[BACK TO 9:14] stubbornness. See note on 3:17 . Baals. See 2:23 and note.

[BACK TO 9:15] eat bitter food and drink poisoned water. Repeated in 23:15 ; see note on 8:14 . Centuries earlier, Moses had warned the Israelites concerning just such a fate (see Dt 29:18 ).

[BACK TO 9:16] I will scatter them. See 13:24 ; 18:17 ; 30:11 ; 46:28 . This warning was given in Dt 28:64 as one of the curses for persistent covenant unfaithfulness. pursue them with the sword. See 42:16 . made an end of them. But not to the last man (see note on 4:27 ; see especially 44:27–28 ).

[BACK TO 9:17] wailing women. Professionals, paid to mourn at funerals and other sorrowful occasions (see 2Ch 35:25 ; Ecc 12:5 ; Am 5:16 ).

[BACK TO 9:18] wail. See v. 10 . eyes overflow with tears. See v. 1 .

[BACK TO 9:19] How ruined we are! See 4:13 , 20 ; cf. 48:1 .

[BACK TO 9:20–21] The prophet speaks.

[BACK TO 9:20] The wailing women will have to teach their daughters how to lament, so great will be the need for their services.

[BACK TO 9:21] Death. Personified here (as in Hab 2:5 ). Canaanite mythology included a deity named Mot (a word related to the Hebrew word for “death”), the god of infertility and the netherworld. climbed in through our windows. Said of an army of “locusts” in Joel 2:9 (see note there). children … young men. See 6:11 .

[BACK TO 9:22] Dead bodies. See 7:33 and note. like dung. See note on 8:2 . reaper. The concept of death as the “grim reaper” comes largely from this verse.

[BACK TO 9:23] Let not … the rich boast of their riches. An almost exact parallel occurs in the Aramaic Words of Ahiqar , written about a century after Jeremiah’s time: “Let not the rich say, ‘In my riches I am glorious.’ “

[BACK TO 9:24] 1Co 1:31 summarizes: “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.” this … these. Ultimately, only God and our knowledge of and love for him are worthwhile. have the understanding to know me. See 3:15 ; see also note on 4:22 . I am the L ORD. Ex 6:2–8 , a key passage on the doctrine of redemption, begins and ends with this statement of divine self-disclosure. kindness. The Hebrew for this word is translated “devotion” in 2:2 (see note there). in these I delight. See Ps 11:7 ; 33:5 ; 99:4 ; 103:6 ; Mic 6:8 ; 7:18 .

[BACK TO 9:25–26] See Ro 2:25–29 ; see also note on Ge 17:10 .

[BACK TO 9:26] who live … in distant places. Arab tribes (see 25:23 ; 49:32 ), later to be attacked by the Babylonians under Nebuchadnezzar (see 49:28–33 ). With the NIV text note here, contrast Lev 19:27 . uncircumcised in heart. See 4:4 and note.

[BACK TO 10:1–25] Jeremiah concludes his series of temple messages with a poetic section that focuses primarily on the vast difference between idols and the Lord (vv. 2–16 ). Idols and their worshipers are condemned in vv. 2–5 , 8–9 , 11 , 14–15 , while the one true God is praised in the alternate passages (vv. 6–7 , 10 , 12–13 , 16 ). See Isa 40:18–20 and note; 41:7 ; 44:9–20 ; 46:5–7 .

[BACK TO 10:1] Hear. See note on 2:4 .

[BACK TO 10:2] Do not … be terrified. See 1:17 . ways. The Hebrew for this word is singular and refers to the religious practices of the nations. The early Christians often called their distinctive beliefs and lifestyle the “Way” (see Ac 9:2 ; 19:9 , 23 ; 22:4 ; 24:14 , 22 ). signs in the heavens. The heavenly bodies were created by the Lord for purposes other than idolatrous worship (see Ge 1:14–18 and notes). nations are terrified. Not only by the heavenly bodies themselves but also by unusual phenomena associated with them (such as comets, meteors and eclipses).

[BACK TO 10:3] worthless. See note on 2:5 . cut a tree. See Isa 44:14–15 . craftsman. The Hebrew for this word is often used of idol-makers who work usually—but not always (see Isa 40:19 )—with wood (see Isa 41:7 ). chisel. Cf. Isa 44:13 .

[BACK TO 10:4] silver and gold. Wooden idols were plated with precious metals to beautify them (see Isa 30:22 ; 40:19 ). fasten it … so it will not totter. See Isa 40:20 ; 41:7 ; cf. 46:7 ; contrast 1Sa 5:2–4 .

[BACK TO 10:5] The impotence of idols is described in classic form in Ps 115:4–7 ; 135:15–18 . scarecrow. Verse 70 in the Apocryphal Letter of Jeremiah uses the same imagery. cucumber field. See Isa 1:8 . must be carried. Usually on the backs of animals. See Isa 46:1 . harm nor … good. Idols can do nothing at all (see Isa 41:22–24 ).

[BACK TO 10:6] No one. Among the gods (see Ps 86:8 ). your name is mighty in power. See 16:21 .

[BACK TO 10:7] fear you , King of the nations. See Ps 47:8–9 and notes; 96:10 ; Rev 15:3–4 and notes. Unlike the gods of the surrounding nations, limited to their own territories, the Lord is King over all (see Ge 28:15 ; 2Ki 5:17 and notes). This. Reverence (“fear”). Among all the wise leaders … no one like you. See Isa 19:12 ; 29:14 ; 1Co 1:20 .

[BACK TO 10:8] senseless and foolish. See vv. 14 , 21 ; 5:21 ; see also NIV text note on Pr 1:7 . taught by … idols. Instead of by the Lord (see Dt 11:2 ; Job 5:17 ; Pr 3:11 , where the Hebrew word for “taught by” is translated “discipline”).

[BACK TO 10:9] silver … from Tarshish. See Eze 27:12 ; see also note on Isa 23:6 . Uphaz. Mentioned only here. craftsman and goldsmith. See Isa 40:19 and note. dressed in blue and purple. To make it look regal. all. The idols.

[BACK TO 10:10] Everything that idols are not, the Lord is. true. See 1Th 1:9 . living God. See 23:36 ; Dt 5:26 ; 2Ki 19:4 and note. eternal. See Ex 15:18 ; Ps 10:16 ; 29:10 . When … wrath. See Ps 97:5 ; Na 1:5 .

[BACK TO 10:11] See NIV text note. The other major Aramaic passages in the OT are Ezr 4:8–6:18 ; 7:12–26 ; Da 2:4–7:28 . them. Pagan idolaters, who would have been more likely to understand Aramaic (the language of diplomacy during this period) than Hebrew.

[BACK TO 10:12–16] Repeated almost verbatim in 51:15–19 .

[BACK TO 10:12] But God. In contrast to the false gods of v. 11 . stretched out the heavens. Like a tent or canopy (see Ps 104:2 ; Isa 40:22 and note).

[BACK TO 10:13] he makes clouds … his storehouses. Repeated in Ps 135:7 , where the one true God is contrasted to false gods (see Ps 135:5 , 15–17 ); cf. Job 38:22 .

[BACK TO 10:14] senseless. See vv. 8 , 21 ; see also note on 4:22 . images. Cast in metal; the Hebrew for this word is translated “metal god” in Isa 48:5 and “metal images” in Da 11:8 . no breath. See Ps 135:17 .

[BACK TO 10:15] worthless. See note on v. 3 .

[BACK TO 10:16] Portion of Jacob. A title for God, used again only in 51:19 (see Ps 73:26 and note; 119:57 ; 142:5 ; La 3:24 ). people of his inheritance. See Isa 63:17 . the L ORD Almighty is his name. See 2:19 and note; Isa 54:5 ; Am 4:13 .

[BACK TO 10:17–22] Destruction and exile are imminent.

[BACK TO 10:18] hurl out. As from a sling.

[BACK TO 10:19–20] On behalf of his countrymen, the prophet bemoans their fate and his own (see 4:19–21 ).

[BACK TO 10:20] My children. The people of Judah and Jerusalem (Jeremiah never married or had children; see 16:2 ). shelter. See note on 4:20 .

[BACK TO 10:21] shepherds … flock. Rulers and people (see note on 2:8 ). senseless. See vv. 8 , 14 ; see also note on 4:22 . do not inquire of the L ORD. Instead, they consult the heavenly bodies (see 8:2 ). scattered. See note on 9:16 .

[BACK TO 10:22] great commotion. The sound of the invaders (see 6:23 ; 8:16 ). land of the north. Babylonia (see 1:15 and note; 4:6 ; 6:22 ; see also note on Isa 41:25 ). haunt of jackals. See 9:11 and note.

[BACK TO 10:23–25] On the people’s behalf, the prophet prays for divine justice.

[BACK TO 10:23] Only the Lord can direct people’s steps (see Ps 37:23 ; Pr 16:9 and note).

[BACK TO 10:25] Repeated almost verbatim in Ps 79:6–7 , where the context (see Ps 79:1–5 ) shows that the prayer is not vengeful but is an appeal for God’s justice (see note on Ps 5:10 ). The verse is recited annually by Jews during their Passover service.

[BACK TO 11:1–13:27] Because of Judah’s violations of its covenant obligations, the people will be exiled to Babylonia. The section is perhaps to be dated to the reign of Josiah (but see note on 13:18 ).

[BACK TO 11:1–17] God’s people have broken his covenant with them.

[BACK TO 11:2] Listen. See note on 2:4 . terms. Lit. “words,” a technical term for covenant stipulations (see vv. 3–4 , 6 ; 34:18 ; see also note on Ex 20:1 ). this covenant. See vv. 3 , 6 , 8 , 10 ; Dt 29:9 . Reference is to the covenant established by God with Israel through Moses at Mount Sinai (see v. 4 ; Ex 19–24 ). tell them. Periodic public reading of covenants was a common and necessary practice (see Dt 31:10–13 ; Jos 8:34–35 ).

[BACK TO 11:3] Cursed is the one. “Cursed is anyone” appears at the beginning of every covenant curse in Dt 27:15–26 , and the people respond to each of the curses with their “Amen.” Blessings resulted from obedience to the covenant (see Dt 28:1–14 ); curses resulted from disobedience (see Dt 28:15–68 ; see also Dt 11:26–28 ; 29:20–21 ).

[BACK TO 11:4] out of Egypt … the iron-smelting furnace. See note on Dt 4:20 . Obey me. See v. 7 ; 7:23 ; Ex 19:5 . my people … your God. See note on 7:23 .

[BACK TO 11:5] fulfill the oath I swore. See Ge 15:17–18 and notes; Dt 7:8 . land flowing with milk and honey. See 32:22 ; see also note on Ex 3:8 . Amen. See note on v. 3 .

[BACK TO 11:6] Proclaim. See 2:2 ; 3:12 .

[BACK TO 11:7] again and again. See note on 7:13 .

[BACK TO 11:8] See 7:24 . stubbornness of their evil hearts. See note on 3:17 . So I brought on them. See 2Ki 17:18–23 . curses of the covenant. See note on v. 3 .

[BACK TO 11:9] conspiracy. Against the intended reforms of Josiah (see Introduction: Background ; see also note on 1:2 ).

[BACK TO 11:10] refused. Their sin was deliberate (see note on 9:6 ). the covenant. Lit. “my covenant,” emphasizing its origin in God himself.

[BACK TO 11:11] I will bring on them. Judah will be judged, just as Israel had been judged earlier (see v. 10 ; see also 2Ki 17:18–23 ).

[BACK TO 11:12] burn incense. See vv. 13 , 17 ; see also note on 1:16 .

[BACK TO 11:13] as many gods as … towns. See note on 2:28 . altars … as many as the streets. See 2Ch 28:24 . to that shameful god Baal. See 3:24 ; see also notes on 2:26 ; Jdg 6:32 .

[BACK TO 11:14] Do not pray for this people. See note on 7:16 ; cf. 1Jn 5:16 .

[BACK TO 11:15] See 7:10–11 , 21–24 . my beloved. Judah (see 12:7 ; cf. Dt 33:12 , where Benjamin is called the “beloved of the L ORD ”).

[BACK TO 11:16] called you … olive tree. See Ps 52:8 ; 128:3 . storm. The Hebrew for this word appears elsewhere only in Eze 1:24 , where it is translated “tumult” in reference to the noise made by an army (see Isa 13:4 ). branches will be broken. See Eze 31:12 .

[BACK TO 11:17] Fulfilled when Judah was destroyed in 586 BC (see 44:2–3 ). aroused my anger. See 8:19 ; Dt 31:29 .

[BACK TO 11:18–23] The first of Jeremiah’s six “confessions” (see Introduction: Author and Date ).

[BACK TO 11:18] their … they. Jeremiah’s personal enemies, the “people of Anathoth” (vv. 21 , 23 ), his hometown.

[BACK TO 11:19] lamb led to the slaughter. See 51:40 ; see also Isa 53:7 and note. destroy the tree and its fruit. Contrast 12:2 . cut him off from the land of the living. See Isa 53:8 ; contrast Ps 27:13 . name. Since Jeremiah had no children (see 16:2 ), his name would die with him. be remembered no more. As though he were evil (see Job 24:20 ; Eze 21:32 ).

[BACK TO 11:20] Repeated almost verbatim in 20:12 ; see also 17:10 . you … who judge righteously. See note on Ge 18:25 .

[BACK TO 11:21] people of Anathoth who are threatening to kill you. See 12:6 . “A man’s enemies are the members of his own household” ( Mic 7:6 , quoted by Jesus in Mt 10:36 ).

[BACK TO 11:22] sword … famine. See note on 5:12 .

[BACK TO 11:23] remnant. See 6:9 ; Isa 10:20–22 and notes. them. The conspirators in Anathoth, not its entire population, since 128 men of Anathoth returned to their hometown after the exile (see Ezr 2:23 ).

[BACK TO 12:1–4] The second of Jeremiah’s “confessions” (see Introduction: Author and Date ), continuing and closely related to the first ( 11:18–23 ). Jeremiah speaks in vv. 1–4 , and God responds in vv. 5–6 .

[BACK TO 12:1] You are … righteous. See note on Ge 18:25 ; see also 11:20 ; Ps 51:4 ; Ro 3:4 . Because God is righteous, he is a dependable arbiter and judge. Yet. He is nevertheless ready to listen to our questions and complaints. Why does … the wicked prosper? The question is not unique to Jeremiah (see, e.g., Job 21:7–15 ; Mal 3:15 ). The Lord replies that ultimately the wicked in Judah will perish (vv. 7–13 ) and that the wicked invaders who destroy them will themselves be destroyed (vv. 14–17 ).

[BACK TO 12:2] You have planted them. But a sovereign God can always reconsider his intentions if conditions warrant a change (see 18:9–10 ). bear fruit. The wicked flourish, while Jeremiah’s fellow citizens plot to destroy his own “fruit” (see 11:19 ). on their lips … far from their hearts. Quoted in part by Jesus in Mt 15:8–9 .

[BACK TO 12:3] test my thoughts. See 11:20 . like sheep to be butchered. Jeremiah asks that his wicked countrymen receive the fate mentioned for himself in 11:19 . His request arises not so much out of a desire for revenge as for the vindication of God’s righteousness (see note on 10:25 ). day of slaughter. An expression found elsewhere only in Jas 5:5 (see note there).

[BACK TO 12:4] parched … withered. See 23:10 ; see also 3:3 ; 14:1 and note. Apparently there was a series of droughts in Judah during Jeremiah’s ministry. He will not see. The prophet’s enemies do not believe that his predictions will be fulfilled. Or they believe that if they are, Jeremiah will not live to see their fulfillment.

[BACK TO 12:5] The Lord warns Jeremiah that in the future his troubles will increase (see, e.g., 38:4–6 ). stumble. The Hebrew for this word usually means “trust” (see NIV text note). thickets. Providing cover for lions (see 49:19 ; 50:44 ; Zec 11:3 ). If the Hebrew for this word means “flooding” (see NIV text note) here, an ancient example is described in Jos 3:15 .

[BACK TO 12:6] family. Lit. “house,” linking this verse verbally with the following context (see v. 7 ). Apparently, members of Jeremiah’s own family were included in the “people of Anathoth” ( 11:21 , 23 ) who wanted to kill him.

[BACK TO 12:7–17] The Lord will judge Judah (vv. 7–13 ) as well as the wicked neighboring nations (vv. 14–17 ).

[BACK TO 12:7] house. Judah (see, e.g., 11:17 ). inheritance. God’s land and people (see vv. 8–9 , 14–15 ; see also Ex 15:17 and note; Dt 4:20 ; Isa 19:25 ; 47:6 ). the one I love. See note on 11:15 .

[BACK TO 12:8] I hate her. I will withdraw my love from her by giving her “into the hands of her enemies” (v. 7 ; see Mal 1:3 and note).

[BACK TO 12:9] other birds of prey … wild beasts. Judah’s enemies (see Isa 56:9 and note).

[BACK TO 12:10] shepherds. Rulers (see note on 2:8 ). my vineyard. Judah (see 2:21 and note). pleasant field. See 3:19 and note.

[BACK TO 12:11] parched. See v. 4 and note. A total of seven s -sounds and seven m -sounds in the Hebrew of this brief verse punctuates its theme and provides a striking example of Jeremiah’s literary gifts (see Introduction: Literary Features ).

[BACK TO 12:12] barren heights. Places of idolatrous worship (see 3:2 ; Nu 23:3 ). destroyers. The Babylonians (see note on 4:7 ). sword of the L ORD. Symbolizing God’s instruments of judgment (see 25:29 ; 47:6 and note on Ps 7:12–13 ). from one end … to the other. See 25:33 . no one will be safe. Lit. “there will be no peace/safety for anyone” (see 6:14 and note).

[BACK TO 12:13] See 14:2–4 .

[BACK TO 12:14] wicked neighbors. See, e.g., 2Ki 24:2 . seize. Lit. “touch,” used in the context of attack and plunder in Zec 2:8 . uproot. Carry off into exile (see, e.g., 1Ki 14:15 ).

[BACK TO 12:15] The exiles from Judah, and those from the neighboring nations, will eventually be brought back to their respective lands (see v. 16 ; 32:37 , 44 ; 33:26 ; 48:47 ; 49:6 ).

[BACK TO 12:16] To be fulfilled in the Messianic age (see Isa 56:6–7 and note on 56:7 ). ways. See note on 10:2 . Baal. See note on Jdg 2:13 . be established. The Hebrew for this phrase is translated “prosper” in Mal 3:15 .

[BACK TO 13:1–27] A series of five warnings, the first two (vv. 1–11 , 12–14 ) written in prose and the last three (vv. 15–17 , 18–19 , 20–27 ) in poetry.

[BACK TO 13:1–11] The story of the ruined, useless belt is the first major example of the Lord’s commanding Jeremiah to perform symbolic acts to illustrate his message (see Introduction: Literary Features ).

[BACK TO 13:1–2] , 4–7 Go and buy … So I bought … Take the belt … and hide it … So I went and hid it … Go now to Perath and get the belt … So I went to Perath and dug up the belt. Like his spiritual ancestor Abraham (see note on Ge 12:4 ), Jeremiah was characterized by prompt obedience.

[BACK TO 13:1] linen. The material of which the priests’ garments were made (see Eze 44:17–18 ), symbolic of Israel’s holiness as a “kingdom of priests” (see Ex 19:6 and note). The linen belt is a symbol of the formerly intimate relationship between God and Judah (see v. 11 ). do not let it touch water. Do not wash it—symbolic of Judah’s sinful pride (see v. 9 ).

[BACK TO 13:3] Then. Some time later.

[BACK TO 13:4] Perath. Perhaps the same as Parah ( Jos 18:23 ), near the modern Wadi Farah, three miles northeast of Anathoth. Since in other contexts the Hebrew for Perath refers to the river Euphrates (see NIV text note), it serves as an appropriate symbol of the corrupting Assyrian and Babylonian influence on Judah that began during the reign of Ahaz (see 2Ki 16 ). crevice in the rocks. See note on 16:16 .

[BACK TO 13:6] Many days later. Perhaps a reference to the lengthy Babylonian exile.

[BACK TO 13:7] dug up. The belt had either been buried by the prophet or silted over by the water of the wadi. it was ruined. As foreseen in Lev 26:39 , God’s people in exile would waste away because of their sins and the sins of their ancestors.

[BACK TO 13:9] pride … great pride. Contrast 9:23–24 . Judah’s vaunted pride would be a cause of her downfall and exile (see vv. 15 , 17 ), as foreshadowed in Lev 26:19 .

[BACK TO 13:10] refuse to listen. See note on 9:6 . stubbornness of their hearts. See note on 3:17 . completely useless. See 24:8 .

[BACK TO 13:11] But they have not listened. And therefore the promise of Dt 26:19 can no longer be fulfilled in them.

[BACK TO 13:12–14] The Lord uses the imagery of filled wineskins to point toward the eventual destruction of Judah’s leaders and people.

[BACK TO 13:13] drunkenness. In a literal sense (see, e.g., Isa 28:7 ), but also symbolizing the effects of the wine of God’s wrath (see 25:15–29 ; Ps 60:3 ; Isa 51:17–23 ; Eze 23:32–34 ). kings … priests … prophets … all those living in Jerusalem. See 26:16 ; see also note on 1:18 .

[BACK TO 13:14] smash them one against the other. The various factions in Judah produced only confusion and chaos in the face of determined outside enemies. no pity or mercy or compassion. See 21:7 ; see also Eze 5:11 .

[BACK TO 13:15–17] Sinful pride carries the seeds of its own destruction, says the prophet.

[BACK TO 13:15] Hear. See note on 2:4 . do not be arrogant. See v. 17 ; see also note on v. 9 .

[BACK TO 13:16] Give glory to … God. Confess your sins (cf. Jos 7:19 ; Jn 9:24 ). You hope for light , but. Cf. the description of the day of the Lord in Am 5:18–20 ; 8:9 .

[BACK TO 13:17] I will weep. See note on 9:1 . pride. See v. 15 ; see also note on v. 9 . flock. People (see v. 20 ; Zec 10:3 ; see also note on 10:21 ). taken captive. Into exile (see v. 19 ).

[BACK TO 13:18–19] The prophet speaks: Exile is imminent.

[BACK TO 13:18] king and … queen mother. Probably Jehoiachin and Nehushta ( 2Ki 24:8 ). If so, the date is 597 BC , about 12 years after Josiah’s death (see note on 11:1–13:27 ). your … crowns will fall. See 22:24–26 ; 29:2 ; 2Ki 24:15 ; cf. Eze 21:25–27 and notes.

[BACK TO 13:19] Negev. The dry southland (see note on Ge 12:9 ). shut up. Blocked by debris (see Isa 24:10 ). All Judah. The nation as a whole. carried completely away. Cf. Am 1:6 , 9 (“whole communities”).

[BACK TO 13:20–27] First the prophet speaks (vv. 20–23 ), then the Lord (vv. 24–27 ). Judah’s willful rebellion has made exile inevitable.

[BACK TO 13:20] you … you. Jerusalem, personified as a woman (see vv. 21–22 , 26–27 ), is being addressed. the north. Babylonia (see 4:6 ; see also note on Isa 41:25 ). flock … sheep. See note on v. 17 .

[BACK TO 13:21] special allies. Perhaps Egypt and Babylonia, who alternated in dominating Judah (see Introduction: Background ). like … a woman in labor. See note on 4:31 .

[BACK TO 13:22] skirts … torn off. Disgraced publicly, like a common prostitute (see vv. 26–27 ; Isa 47:2–3 ; Hos 2:3 , 10 ).

[BACK TO 13:23] Can … spots? A rhetorical question, expecting a negative answer (see 17:9 ).

[BACK TO 13:24] like chaff driven. The fate of the wicked (see, e.g., Ps 1:4 ). desert wind. See note on 4:11 .

[BACK TO 13:25] forgotten me. See 2:32 and note.

[BACK TO 13:26] See v. 22 and note.

[BACK TO 13:27] adulteries and lustful neighings. See note on 5:8 . shameless prostitution. See Eze 16:26 ; see also Ex 34:15 and note. How long … ? There is yet hope, however slender, to postpone the divine wrath (cf., e.g., 12:14–16 ).