Jeremiah 15:14
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 15:14
14 And I will make thee to pass with thine enemies into a land which thou knowest not: for a fire is kindled in mine anger, which shall burn upon you.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 15 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of covenant, love, worship. 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 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 15:14
14 And I will make thee to pass with thine enemies into a land which thou knowest not: for a fire is kindled in mine anger, which shall burn upon you.
Analysis
The consequence continues: 'And I will make thee to pass with thine enemies into a land which thou knowest not: for a fire is kindled in mine anger, which shall burn upon you.' Exile to unknown lands is threatened. The phrase 'pass with thine enemies' depicts deportation as captives. The destination—'a land which thou knowest not'—emphasizes the disorientation and trauma of forced relocation. The cause: 'a fire is kindled in mine anger.' God's wrath is active, burning against them. This anthropomorphic language ('kindled,' 'burn') emphasizes divine judgment's intensity. The Reformed doctrine of God's wrath sees it as His settled, righteous opposition to sin—not emotional instability but holy hatred of evil.
Historical Context
The Babylonian exile forcibly relocated Judeans to Mesopotamia, a foreign land with different language, culture, and climate. This dislocation fulfilled the covenant curse of exile (Deuteronomy 28:36-37, 64-68).
Reflection
- How does exile to unknown lands represent loss of identity and security?
- What does the fire metaphor teach about the nature and intensity of God's wrath?
- How should understanding God's wrath as 'kindled' against sin affect our view of its seriousness?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Jeremiah 16:13, 17:4, Deuteronomy 28:36, 28:64, 32:22, Psalms 21:9