Jeremiah 16:2
Thou shalt not take thee a wife, neither shalt thou have sons or daughters in this place.
Original Language Analysis
לֹֽא
H3808
לֹֽא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
1 of 11
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
תִקַּ֥ח
Thou shalt not take
H3947
תִקַּ֥ח
Thou shalt not take
Strong's:
H3947
Word #:
2 of 11
to take (in the widest variety of applications)
וְלֹֽא
H3808
וְלֹֽא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
5 of 11
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
יִהְי֤וּ
H1961
יִהְי֤וּ
Strong's:
H1961
Word #:
6 of 11
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
בָּנִ֣ים
neither shalt thou have sons
H1121
בָּנִ֣ים
neither shalt thou have sons
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
8 of 11
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
וּבָנ֔וֹת
or daughters
H1323
וּבָנ֔וֹת
or daughters
Strong's:
H1323
Word #:
9 of 11
a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)
Historical Context
Marriage and children were highly valued in ancient Israel; celibacy was exceptional and countercultural. Jeremiah's unmarried state would have prompted questions, creating opportunities to explain coming judgment.
Questions for Reflection
- How do prophetic sign-acts communicate truth in ways words alone cannot?
- What does suspension of normal life pursuits teach about the urgency of eschatological awareness?
- How should awareness of coming judgment affect present life decisions and priorities?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
God gives Jeremiah unusual command: 'Thou shalt not take thee a wife, neither shalt thou have sons or daughters in this place.' This prohibition against marriage and family is unique among prophets and served symbolic purpose. The reason follows in subsequent verses: children born in Judah will face horrors of siege and conquest. Jeremiah's celibacy symbolized the futility of normal life pursuits in the face of coming judgment. This dramatic prophetic sign-act demonstrated that circumstances were so dire that ordinary blessings (marriage, children) should be suspended. It illustrated that judgment was imminent and comprehensive.