Jeremiah 13:9
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 13:9
9 Thus saith the LORD, After this manner will I mar the pride of Judah, and the great pride of Jerusalem.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 13 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of faith, discipleship, judgment. 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 contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 13:9
9 Thus saith the LORD, After this manner will I mar the pride of Judah, and the great pride of Jerusalem.
Analysis
This verse begins interpretation: 'Thus saith the LORD, After this manner will I mar the pride of Judah, and the great pride of Jerusalem.' 'After this manner' (kakah) connects sign to meaning. 'Mar' (ashchith) uses the same root as the girdle's 'marred' condition (v. 7)—God will do to Judah what happened to the garment. 'Pride' (ge'on, גְּאוֹן) of both Judah and Jerusalem will be ruined. Pride—national arrogance, presumption on election, confidence in temple—is the specific target. As the girdle rotted, so Judah's pride will decay.
Historical Context
Judah's pride included confidence in the temple's inviolability (7:4), election as covenant people (2:3), and Davidic dynasty promises. These genuine privileges became sources of presumption rather than gratitude. The exile would 'mar' this pride—humiliated, conquered, temple destroyed, king deposed. National arrogance would be thoroughly broken.
Reflection
- How does pride transform genuine privileges into presumption?
- What forms of religious or national pride might need to be 'marred' by God?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Isaiah 23:9
- Parallel theme: Leviticus 26:19, Zephaniah 3:11