Jeremiah 10:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 10:21
21 For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 10 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of mercy, redemption, covenant. Written during the final years of Judah and early exile (c. 627-580 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Prophesied during Judah's final years as Babylon became the dominant power.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-25: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Jeremiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Jeremiah 10:21
21 For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.
Analysis
This verse indicts leaders: 'For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD.' 'Pastors' (ro'im, רֹעִים, shepherds) are political and religious leaders. 'Brutish' (nivaru) indicates stupid, senseless—lacking understanding their position required. 'Not sought the LORD' (lo dareshu eth-YHWH) means they failed to inquire of God for guidance. 'Therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.' Leadership failure produces national disaster—shepherds' foolishness scatters their sheep. The promised consequence—lack of prosperity and scattered flocks—exactly describes exile's result.
Historical Context
Jeremiah frequently indicts Judah's 'shepherds'—kings, priests, prophets who misled the nation (2:8, 23:1-4, 25:34-36). The shepherd metaphor was common ancient Near Eastern royal imagery. Judah's final kings (Jehoiakim, Jehoiachin, Zedekiah) exemplified failed leadership—ignoring prophetic warning, pursuing foolish alliances, bringing destruction upon their 'flock.'
Reflection
- What marks 'brutish' leadership that fails to 'seek the LORD'?
- How does leadership failure multiply suffering throughout the community?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Jeremiah 2:8, 8:9, Zechariah 10:3, 13:7
- Parallel theme: Jeremiah 10:8, 12:10, Ezekiel 34:12