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Jeremiah 7

34 verses

TL;DR

Jeremiah delivers a stern warning to Judah, urging them to abandon idolatry and injustice or face divine judgment.

Summary

Jeremiah is commanded to stand at the temple gate and proclaim God's call for Judah to amend its ways. He condemns the people for trusting false promises, committing crimes, and worshipping other gods. The Lord compares their behavior to that of Shiloh, warning that the same punishment will come. He declares that He will not heed their prayers or intercession and will bring anger upon the city, destroying its offerings, people, and even the land. The chapter highlights the covenant breach, the failure of prophets, and the severity of the coming judgment, including the desecration of Tophet and the eventual desolation of Jerusalem.

Outline
  1. Jeremiah’s prophetic address at the temple gate
  2. Condemnation of idolatry, injustice, and broken covenant
  3. Divine judgment: destruction of the city and its religious practices
Themes
Judgment and accountabilityCovenant fidelity versus disobedienceThe futility of false religious rituals
Keywords
judgmentcovenantidolatryprophecyTophetburnt offeringsinjusticedesolation
People
JeremiahLORDIsraelJudahEphraimJerusalem (personified)
Places
JerusalemShilohTophetvalley of the son of Hinnomthe gate of the LORD's house
Things
Templeburnt offeringsincense to Baalhigh placesTophetsacred householdprophets
Key Verses
  • Jeremiah 7:1: Introduction of the prophetic mission
  • Jeremiah 7:5: Link between justice and divine blessing
  • Jeremiah 7:15: Statement of divine judgment and exile
  • Jeremiah 7:20: Description of God's anger and its comprehensive effect
  • Jeremiah 7:31: Highlighting the abominable practice of child sacrifice
  • Jeremiah 7:34: Final curse of desolation upon the city
Questions
  • What does Jeremiah mean by ‘trusting in lying words’?
  • How does the chapter link social justice to divine favor?
  • Why does the Lord refuse to hear prayers from the people?
  • What is the significance of the comparison with Shiloh?
  • How does the mention of Tophet influence our understanding of ancient Israelite worship?
Sentiment

negative
The tone is accusatory and foreboding, emphasizing impending punishment.