Jeremiah 11:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 11:5
5 That I may perform the oath which I have sworn unto your fathers, to give them a land flowing with milk and honey, as it is this day. Then answered I, and said, So be it, O LORD.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 11 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of love, hope, discipleship. 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 11:5
5 That I may perform the oath which I have sworn unto your fathers, to give them a land flowing with milk and honey, as it is this day. Then answered I, and said, So be it, O LORD.
Analysis
This verse explains covenant purpose: 'That I may perform the oath which I have sworn unto your fathers, to give them a land flowing with milk and honey, as it is this day.' The Hebrew qum (קוּם, perform, establish) indicates God's commitment to His sworn promises. 'Fathers' (avoth) refers to the patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, Jacob. The 'land flowing with milk and honey' (erets zavath chalav udevash) is the standard description of Canaan's fertility (Exodus 3:8, 13:5). 'As it is this day' affirms fulfillment—they possess the land, proving God kept His oath. Jeremiah's response 'Amen, O LORD' (so be it) accepts the covenant terms as prophet and as Israelite.
Historical Context
The promise of land to Abraham (Genesis 12:7, 15:18-21) was foundational to Israelite identity. By Jeremiah's day, Israel had possessed Canaan for approximately 800 years—clear evidence of divine faithfulness. The phrase 'milk and honey' describes agricultural abundance: milk from livestock, honey from bees or date syrup. Archaeological evidence confirms Canaan's productivity compared to surrounding regions.
Reflection
- How does God's faithfulness to oath-promises create obligation for the covenant partner's faithfulness?
- What does Jeremiah's 'Amen' signify about prophetic identification with the message proclaimed?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Jeremiah 28:6, Exodus 13:5, Leviticus 20:24, Deuteronomy 6:3
- Parallel theme: Matthew 6:13, 1 Corinthians 14:16