Jeremiah 11:18
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 11:18
18 And the LORD hath given me knowledge of it, and I know it: then thou shewedst me their doings.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 11 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of covenant, love, obedience. 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 21-23: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. 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 11:18
18 And the LORD hath given me knowledge of it, and I know it: then thou shewedst me their doings.
Analysis
This verse reveals a plot against Jeremiah: 'And the LORD hath given me knowledge of it, and I know it: then thou shewedst me their doings.' The Hebrew hodia'ni (הוֹדִיעַנִי) indicates divine revelation—God showed Jeremiah what he couldn't have known naturally. 'Then thou shewedst me their doings' (ma'alleleihem, their deeds, practices) refers to the conspiracy against him. Verse 19 will identify the plotters as his hometown of Anathoth. This divine warning allowed Jeremiah to understand why he faced unexpected hostility. The prophet's suffering begins here—not just rejection but active plots against his life.
Historical Context
This section (11:18-12:6) contains Jeremiah's first 'confession' or personal lament. The plot from Anathoth represents escalation from rejection to assassination attempt. Anathoth was Jeremiah's hometown, a Levitical city three miles north of Jerusalem. His own community, possibly including family, planned his murder. Divine revelation of the plot demonstrates God's protective care for His prophet.
Reflection
- What does divine revelation of plots against His servants demonstrate about God's protective awareness?
- How might opposition from one's own community be especially painful for prophetic ministry?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord