Jeremiah 11:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 11:21
21 Therefore thus saith the LORD of the men of Anathoth, that seek thy life, saying, Prophesy not in the name of the LORD, that thou die not by our hand:
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 11 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, salvation, 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 21-23: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 11:21
21 Therefore thus saith the LORD of the men of Anathoth, that seek thy life, saying, Prophesy not in the name of the LORD, that thou die not by our hand:
Analysis
This verse names the conspirators: 'Therefore thus saith the LORD of the men of Anathoth, that seek thy life.' Jeremiah's own townspeople seek to kill him. 'Saying, Prophesy not in the name of the LORD, that thou die not by our hand.' They demand prophetic silence or death. The opposition isn't to Jeremiah personally but to his message—'in the name of the LORD' (beshem YHWH). Silencing the prophet means silencing God's word. This anticipates persecution of prophets throughout history—the message provokes the violence, not the messenger.
Historical Context
Anathoth was a Levitical city (Joshua 21:18), making this priestly opposition to prophecy. Jeremiah's family may have descended from Abiathar, the priest Solomon banished to Anathoth (1 Kings 2:26-27). Perhaps they resented prophecies threatening their religious establishment. The phrase 'seek thy life' (mevaqshim eth-nafsheka) appears repeatedly in Jeremiah's confessions.
Reflection
- Why would Jeremiah's own hometown and possibly family seek to kill him?
- What does the demand to 'stop prophesying or die' reveal about the threat true prophecy poses to false religion?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Prophecy: Isaiah 30:10, Amos 2:12
- Parallel theme: Jeremiah 20:10