Jeremiah 13:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 13:11
11 For as the girdle cleaveth to the loins of a man, so have I caused to cleave unto me the whole house of Israel and the whole house of Judah, saith the LORD; that they might be unto me for a people, and for a name, and for a praise, and for a glory: but they would not hear.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 13 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of fellowship, covenant, righteousness. 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 21-27: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 13:11
11 For as the girdle cleaveth to the loins of a man, so have I caused to cleave unto me the whole house of Israel and the whole house of Judah, saith the LORD; that they might be unto me for a people, and for a name, and for a praise, and for a glory: but they would not hear.
Analysis
This verse explains the girdle symbolism: 'For as the girdle cleaveth to the loins of a man, so have I caused to cleave unto me the whole house of Israel and the whole house of Judah, saith the LORD.' The verb davaq (דָּבַק, cleave, cling) describes intimate attachment—same word used for marriage in Genesis 2:24. God made Israel 'cleave' to Him with intimate closeness like an undergarment against skin. 'That they might be unto me for a people, and for a name, and for a praise, and for a glory.' Four purposes: people (am), name (shem), praise (tehillah), glory (tiph'ereth). Israel was to be God's close possession, bringing Him honor. 'But they would not hear.' The tragic conclusion—they refused intimate relationship.
Historical Context
The girdle's intimate placement (against skin) represented God's desire for close relationship with Israel. The four purposes (people, name, praise, glory) echo election language throughout Deuteronomy and Isaiah. Israel was meant to display God's glory to the nations, bearing His name honorably. Instead, like the ruined girdle, they became worthless through corruption, failing their created purpose.
Reflection
- What does the undergarment imagery reveal about God's desire for intimate relationship with His people?
- How do the four purposes (people, name, praise, glory) describe Israel's intended role?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Resurrection: Jeremiah 33:9, Isaiah 43:21
- References Israel: Psalms 81:11