Jeremiah 13:24
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 13:24
24 Therefore will I scatter them as the stubble that passeth away by the wind of the wilderness.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 13 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of creation, love, wisdom. 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 13:24
24 Therefore will I scatter them as the stubble that passeth away by the wind of the wilderness.
Analysis
This verse announces scattering: 'Therefore will I scatter them as the stubble that passeth away by the wind of the wilderness.' 'Stubble' (qash) is the lightweight chaff left after threshing—blown away by wind. 'Wind of the wilderness' (ruach midbar) is the hot, dry desert wind that carries stubble away completely. Israel will be scattered (patsats) like worthless chaff, carried away by judgment's wind, unable to resist. The agricultural imagery emphasizes both worthlessness (stubble, not grain) and helplessness (blown by wind beyond control).
Historical Context
Chaff/stubble imagery for the wicked appears throughout Scripture (Psalm 1:4, Isaiah 17:13, Hosea 13:3). The threshing floor separated valuable grain from worthless chaff; wind carried chaff away. Israel, having become worthless through sin, would be similarly scattered. The exile fulfilled this exactly—population dispersed throughout the Babylonian Empire like chaff on wind.
Reflection
- What does the stubble/chaff imagery indicate about the worthlessness of covenant-violating Israel?
- How does scattering by wind picture the helplessness of judgment?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Leviticus 26:33, Psalms 1:4, Ezekiel 5:2, 5:12, Hosea 13:3