Jeremiah 15:10
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 15:10
10 Woe is me, my mother, that thou hast borne me a man of strife and a man of contention to the whole earth! I have neither lent on usury, nor men have lent to me on usury; yet every one of them doth curse me.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 15 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of faith, discipleship, holiness. 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 21-21: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. 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 15:10
10 Woe is me, my mother, that thou hast borne me a man of strife and a man of contention to the whole earth! I have neither lent on usury, nor men have lent to me on usury; yet every one of them doth curse me.
Analysis
This verse begins Jeremiah's personal lament: 'Woe is me, my mother, that thou hast borne me a man of strife and a man of contention to the whole earth!' The Hebrew oi li (אוֹי לִי, woe to me) opens personal complaint. 'Man of strife' (ish riv) and 'man of contention' (ish madon) describe his experience as constant conflict. 'To the whole earth' (lekhol ha'arets) indicates universal opposition. 'I have neither lent on usury, nor men have lent to me on usury; yet every one of them doth curse me.' Jeremiah protests his innocence—he hasn't created economic conflict through usury (common source of strife), yet everyone curses him. His suffering is for proclaiming truth, not for personal wrongdoing.
Historical Context
This verse begins Jeremiah's third personal lament (15:10-21). The prophet's life was defined by opposition—cursed by his own people, persecuted by religious establishment, rejected by royal court. The usury reference addresses common sources of social conflict; Jeremiah is innocent of such causes for opposition. His curse comes solely from faithful prophetic ministry.
Reflection
- How does Jeremiah's lament about being 'born for strife' reflect the cost of prophetic ministry?
- What does his protestation of innocence (no usury) reveal about the source of his suffering?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Exodus 22:25, Luke 6:22