Jeremiah 11:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 11:20
20 But, O LORD of hosts, that judgest righteously, that triest the reins and the heart, let me see thy vengeance on them: for unto thee have I revealed my cause.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 11 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of holiness, redemption, grace. 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 establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. 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 11:20
20 But, O LORD of hosts, that judgest righteously, that triest the reins and the heart, let me see thy vengeance on them: for unto thee have I revealed my cause.
Analysis
This verse appeals for divine justice: 'But, O LORD of hosts, that judgest righteously, that triest the reins and the heart.' Jeremiah appeals to God as righteous Judge (shophet tsedeq) who tests (bochen) inner motivations. 'Reins' (kelayoth, kidneys) and 'heart' (lev) represent the seat of emotions and will—God examines motives, not just actions. 'Let me see thy vengeance on them: for unto thee have I revealed my cause.' The Hebrew neqamah (נְקָמָה, vengeance) is divine vindication, not personal revenge. 'Revealed my cause' (galithi eth-rivi) means entrusted his case to God's court. Jeremiah doesn't seek personal retaliation but commits his situation to divine justice.
Historical Context
This appeal for divine vengeance appears throughout Jeremiah's confessions (15:15, 17:18, 18:21-23, 20:12). The 'reins and heart' phrase appears also in Jeremiah 17:10, 20:12, and Psalm 7:9—emphasizing God's complete knowledge of human motivation. Similar appeals appear in imprecatory Psalms (Psalm 35, 69, 109). These are not personal vendettas but appeals to divine justice against those who oppose God's word.
Reflection
- How does appealing for divine vengeance differ from seeking personal revenge?
- What does 'revealing my cause to You' teach about handling injustice through trust in God's justice?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Jeremiah 15:15, 17:10, 1 Samuel 16:7
- Righteousness: Jeremiah 20:12, Genesis 18:25, Psalms 7:9
- Parallel theme: Jeremiah 17:18, 1 Chronicles 29:17, Revelation 2:23, 18:20