Jeremiah 11:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 11:6
6 Then the LORD said unto me, Proclaim all these words in the cities of Judah, and in the streets of Jerusalem, saying, Hear ye the words of this covenant, and do them.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 11 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, faith, 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 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 11:6
6 Then the LORD said unto me, Proclaim all these words in the cities of Judah, and in the streets of Jerusalem, saying, Hear ye the words of this covenant, and do them.
Analysis
This verse commissions proclamation: 'Then the LORD said unto me, Proclaim all these words in the cities of Judah, and in the streets of Jerusalem.' The Hebrew qara (קָרָא, proclaim, cry out) indicates public announcement. 'All these words' (eth-kol-haddevarim) ensures complete message delivery—no editing or softening. 'Cities of Judah' and 'streets of Jerusalem' describe comprehensive geographic coverage. 'Saying, Hear ye the words of this covenant, and do them.' The repeated 'hear' (shim'u) with 'do' (asah) connects hearing to action—genuine hearing produces obedience. Faith without works is dead; hearing without doing is disobedience.
Historical Context
This commission suggests Jeremiah traveled throughout Judah proclaiming covenant demands, possibly as part of Josiah's reform movement. The 'streets of Jerusalem' (chutsoth Yerushalayim) were public gathering spaces where proclamations reached maximum audience. Ancient cities had designated areas for public announcements; Jeremiah was to use these forums for covenant proclamation.
Reflection
- What does comprehensive proclamation 'in all cities' and 'in streets' suggest about reaching everyone with God's word?
- How does the repeated command to 'hear and do' define authentic response to divine revelation?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Word: Jeremiah 3:12, 7:2, 19:2, Romans 2:13, James 1:22
- Parallel theme: John 13:17