Jeremiah 14:1
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 14:1
1 The word of the LORD that came to Jeremiah concerning the dearth.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 14 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, holiness, fellowship. 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 21-22: 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 14:1
1 The word of the LORD that came to Jeremiah concerning the dearth.
Analysis
This verse introduces a prophetic oracle concerning drought ('that which came to Jeremiah concerning the dearth'). The Hebrew 'battsa'rot' refers to times of drought and famine, understood in covenant theology as divine judgment (Deuteronomy 28:23-24). Drought serves as both literal crisis and metaphor for spiritual barrenness when God withdraws blessing. The phrase 'the word of the LORD' emphasizes that even natural disasters carry divine message and purpose. Reformed theology sees God's sovereignty extending over weather and agricultural conditions, using them to call His people to repentance.
Historical Context
Palestine's agriculture depended entirely on seasonal rains. Drought brought economic collapse, famine, and death. Several droughts are mentioned in Jeremiah's ministry, interpreted as covenant curses for unfaithfulness.
Reflection
- How should believers understand natural disasters in light of God's providence and purposes?
- What does drought as metaphor teach about spiritual barrenness when God's blessing is withdrawn?
- How can physical deprivation drive people to seek God or alternatively, to blame Him?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Jeremiah 17:8